Can i reformat but keep some things on my computer?

Question

My computer has become slow and sometimes doesn't respond to commands, is there any way to do like a mini format if such a thing exists as i don't have a way to keep all the files i want? Would it be better to do a system restore?

Answer 1

Yes, it is possible, I've read somewhere that you can partially format some of the HDD, and still keep files, via using a Installation disk, you use command prompt to run XP/Vista off the installation disk, and copy the I386 folder to your computer.

It's not as simple as just copying, there are about 20 steps required but it is a very long process.

Answer 2

First you want to make sure that you don't have a virus. I have listed the two largest security vendors below plus security links for Microsoft and Yahoo. After that I suggest to defrag your computer. The Windows defragment program can be accessed under the [Start] menu under [Accessories]->[System Tools] – this might vary depending upon your version of Windows so if you can’t find it search the help. If it is an older computer you might consider buying more memory because newer web pages especially social sites require a lot of memory and processing power.

Answer 3

NO, if you format your drive all the data will be erased. You should make some copies of the data you want to keep on a DVD or something similar BEFORE you format.

Answer 4

If you have origina Restoration Cd and Drivers and utilites Cd ,you can do it you get a clean system put the Cd on it will take you step by step,

but if you do not have the drivers for your laptop you have to back up your driver if your system is infected ,don't save anything else ,by the way if you go to manufacture web site you can download drivers and utilites for your computer from their site .If you are not sure what you have to down  and keep as back up for your drives just Open C: and search for SYSTEM and system32 folder and copy them into a thumb drive or another CD.