reformat/reinstall help

[structure]

Hi, I recently got some type of virus which may have compromised the security of my computer even after it was removed. I have a ton of junk and wasted space on my computer anyways so I am wondering how I can go about reformatting my whole computer? Also, can you please explain exactly what "reformatting" is? My plan is to backup necessary files to an external drive and then just completely facorty reset my computer. I am under the impression that reformatting will accomplish this.

There seem to be a TON of guides on the net on how to go about doing this. I am just wondering if someone could recommend one of these guides to follow. Thank you

[yardbird]

If you got some type of virus? You should have it cleaned up in the Malware Removal Forum. or else it the virus will just be backed up on your back up program. A Format is a total wipeout of the Harddrive. Removes all. If you still have that virus follow this:

Please read the following so that you can begin the cleaning process:

As we don't deal with malware removal in the General Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware Forum, you need to start a topic in the Malware Removal forum so a qualified helper can help you fix any malware related problems/infections you may have.

• Please read and follow the directions here, skipping any steps you are unable to complete. Then post a NEW topic here.
  
• After posting your new post, make sure under options, you select Track this topic and choose Immediate Email Notification, so that you're alerted when someone has replied to your post.
  
• One of the expert helpers there will give you one-on-one assistance when one becomes available.
  
• Please refrain from making any further changes to your computer (Install/Uninstall programs, use special fix tools, delete files, edit the registry, etc...) unless advised by a malware removal helper. Doing so can result in system changes which may hinder the attempts by a helper to clean your machine.
  
• Note: You will need to reactivate the program using the license you were sent via email if using the Pro version
  

NOTE: Please DO NOT post back to (bump) your topic within the first 48 hours.

Replying to your own posts changes the post count and helpers are looking for topics with zero replies. If you reply to your own post helpers may think that you're already being helped and thus overlook your post.

• • If there is no reply from any experts after 48 hours, you can reply to the topic, asking for help again.
    Or
    
  • You may send a Private Message to a Moderator asking for assistance.
    

Alternatively, as a paying customer, you can contact the help desk at support@malwarebytes.org or here.

Please be patient, someone will assist you as soon as it is possible.

[yardbird]

In HJK Forum

[structure]

Hi, I posted about virus help in the HJT forum and received it. Im just figured someone here might know a little better about formatting a computer rather than tag it on in the HJT post.

I was told that my computer would not be 100% guaranteed to be secure after virus removal so I would like to make sure it is. As I said in my original post, I am considering reformatting my whole computer but have no idea how to go about doing it, or if its even a good idea. Would you be able to recommend a tutorial on how to go about doing so?

thanks

[yardbird]

1. My advice is you finish in the HJK forum (malware removal forum) if you are going to save or back up anything. 2. If you want to trash everything! address books, bookmarks, pic's files, ect. there could be a worm or virus in there with it. Whats the Make & Model of your computer. and what are you running Win XP (SP3)?

[yardbird]

Hi, I posted about virus help in the HJT forum and received it. Im just figured someone here might know a little better about formatting a computer rather than tag it on in the HJT post.

I was told that my computer would not be 100% guaranteed to be secure after virus removal so I would like to make sure it is. As I said in my original post, I am considering reformatting my whole computer but have no idea how to go about doing it, or if its even a good idea. Would you be able to recommend a tutorial on how to go about doing so?

thanks

No one is 100% guaranteed clean. just cookies, can track you. But you will come out of the HJK forum as clean as the tools you will use! Most of the AV scanners just before you come out provide the HJK forum free usage for you to scan your machine. From the big companies! When a Helper sends someone out of the HJK forum. they will be 99.9% clean.... sounds ok?

and whatever you have, you won't spread it to someone else....regards.. when you finish in there. Post your question about Formatting your Hard-drive. Some one will get back to you. Lets do 1 thing at a time. This way when your done, if you decide you want to save something, you can save it clean. regards.

[noknojon]

Hi -

For your system restore please ask your expert in the Malware Removal Area of the forum if they have any preferred method - -

Thank You -

EDIT -

When you ask for details , please specify user system , any installed Antivirus and Firewall , and any other details that may help -

Then stay with one post until the item is completed -