Standard and quick reformat

[Jorge Cervantes]

During reformatting WinXP Pro, what is the difference between quick reformat
and standard reformat? Which one I should choose? Jorge

 

[JS]

Differences between a Quick format and a regular format
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/302686

JS

 

[Patti MacLeod]

Hi Jorge,

Have a look at this MSKB article:

Differences between a Quick format and a regular format during a "clean"
installation of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/302686

Reading the above may also assist you in your decision of which to choose.
Myself, I always go for the standard format, not the quick format.



Regards,

 

[David B.]

I always do the quick format, not the standard format

 

[Lil' Dave]

What it doesn't say that also happens is that, during a regular format, the
original file table is removed and replaced with a new one. This happens
whether bad areas are mapped out or not. In quick format, the original file
table is used, but, file location content is wiped out and renewed to show
no files.

If you're of the opinion that a full format is best, you might as well run
the hard disk checking software from the manufacturer to map out any bad
areas. This checks the mbr region of the hard disk as well. Write zeroes
to the hard disk with same software (if you want the entire hard drive
wiped). Start with a new partition.