How to Format a PC from BIOS or UEFI: Complete Guide

This guide will explain how to format a PC from the BIOS or UEFI, an operation useful when the operating system does not start correctly or when you want to completely erase the disk content and reinstall the operating system. This procedure is particularly useful for solving computer malfunctioning problems or for restoring factory settings.

Complete formatting involves deleting all data present on the disk, so it is essential to back up important data before proceeding. Additionally, it is necessary to download the drivers required for the hardware peripherals and save the installation files of essential programs.

This guide is aimed at technical users who want to restore their computer without using external media such as CDs or USB drives. By following the indicated steps, you will be able to format the PC safely and effectively.

Prerequisites

• Hardware: A working computer with access to BIOS/UEFI.
• Software: A copy of the operating system installation files (Windows 11).
• External media: A USB drive or an external disk for backing up important data.
• Drivers: The drivers required for the hardware peripherals, downloaded from the official manufacturers' websites.
• Passwords and personal data: Saved on a secure cloud service or in a local safe.

Preliminary operations

Before formatting the computer, it is essential to perform some preliminary operations to avoid data loss and subsequent inconveniences. Complete formatting deletes all data present on the disk, but the latest versions of Windows and macOS allow you to keep personal files, deleting only programs and settings.

• If the computer has malfunctioning issues, manually save important documents and remove the rest to avoid transferring damaged files.
• If the computer still boots, use a USB drive or an external disk to create a copy of important data. You can manually transfer files or use backup programs.
• Download the necessary drivers from the official websites of the peripheral or computer manufacturers. Save the drivers on a USB drive to reinstall them after formatting.
• Make sure you have the installation files of essential programs and save your passwords and personal information on a secure cloud service or in a local safe.

How to format a PC from BIOS without CD

Windows Recovery

From Windows 8.1 onwards, Microsoft has introduced a recovery tool that allows you to format the computer without external media. This tool allows you to restore the operating system to factory settings, deleting programs and personal settings.

• Right-click on Start (the Windows flag) and select Settings.
• Go to System, click on Recovery, and press the Reset this PC button next to the Restore this PC to its factory settings option.
• Choose the Remove everything option to delete all data.
• Choose between Download from cloud and Local reinstallation. The first option downloads the necessary files from Microsoft servers, while the second uses the files already present on the computer.
• For a more thorough cleaning, click on Change settings, activate the switch under Clean the drive? and press Confirm.
• Click on Next and then on Reset to start the formatting process.

VERIFICATION AND TROUBLESHOOTING: How to test if it works and what to do if it fails

After completing the formatting and reinstalling the operating system, it is essential to verify that everything works correctly. Here's how to proceed:

• System boot verification: Turn on the computer and make sure it boots correctly. Check that the operating system loads without errors and that you can access the desktop.
• Driver check: Verify that all necessary drivers are correctly installed. Open the Control Panel and check the "Device Manager" section to ensure there are no devices with problems.
• Peripheral testing: Check that all peripherals (printers, scanners, network cards, etc.) work correctly. Try connecting and using them to ensure there are no problems.
• Data restoration: If you saved your data on an external media, restore it on the computer and verify that it is accessible and intact.
• Program installation: Install essential programs and verify that they work correctly. Check for any errors during installation or execution.

If something does not work as expected, here are some troubleshooting steps:

• Check hardware connections: Make sure all peripherals are correctly connected and that the cables are not damaged.
• Update drivers: If a device does not work, try updating the corresponding driver from the manufacturer's website.
• Repair the operating system: If the operating system has errors, use the built-in repair tool. On Windows, you can access this tool through the advanced startup menu.
• System restore: If the problem persists, consider the option to restore the system to an earlier point, if available.
• Reinstall the operating system: In case of serious problems, it may be necessary to repeat the formatting and reinstallation of the operating system.

Educational Summary and Practical Invitation

Each step has been detailed to ensure a safe and effective operation.

Before proceeding with formatting, it is essential to back up important data and download the necessary drivers for the peripherals. This will allow you to restart the system without problems and with all operational functionalities.

Now that you know the necessary steps, put into practice what you have learned. Follow the instructions carefully and make sure to perform each operation with precision. Good work and happy formatting!