How to Reset Your Hard Disk Using DBAN and Reinstall Windows

Resetting your hard disk can be a necessary process if you want to ensure a clean start or if your system becomes corrupted. One popular tool for this task is DBAN (Darik's Boot and Nuke). In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to reset your hard disk using DBAN and then reinstall Windows OS.

Steps to Reset Your Hard Disk Using DBAN

Step 1: Prepare DBAN

First, you need to prepare the DBAN tool.

Download DBAN: Visit the official DBAN website and download the latest ISO file. Create a Bootable USB/DVD: Use a tool like Rufus for USB drives or any DVD burning tool to create a bootable media with the DBAN ISO. This will allow you to boot your computer from the media.

Step 2: Boot from DBAN

To begin the reset process, follow these steps:

Insert the Bootable Media: Plug in the USB or insert the DVD into your computer. Restart Your Computer: Enter your computer's BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F10, DEL, or ESC) and set the boot order to boot from the USB or DVD first. Boot into DBAN: Save the changes, restart your computer, and you should see the DBAN menu.

Step 3: Wipe the Hard Disk

Once DBAN is booted, you can begin the disk wipe process.

Select a Wiping Method: Use the arrow keys to select a method for wiping your hard disk. The available methods include Quick Erase, DoD Short, and others. The default option is usually sufficient for most users. Start the Wiping Process: Press the Enter key to start the process. Confirm if prompted. Wait for Completion: The process may take some time depending on the size of your hard disk and the method you chose. Once completed, the media will be formatted and ready for new data.

Step 4: Reinstall Windows OS

After the hard disk has been successfully wiped by DBAN, you can proceed with reinstalling Windows.

Prepare Windows Installation Media: Download the Windows ISO from the Microsoft website and create a bootable USB using the Windows Media Creation Tool. Boot from Windows Installation Media: Insert the USB into your computer and restart it. Ensure the boot order in BIOS/UEFI is set to boot from the USB device. Install Windows: Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows. When prompted to select a drive, choose the unallocated space where your hard disk was wiped. Proceed with the installation.

Important Notes

Backup Important Data

Before beginning the process, ensure you back up any important data stored on the hard disk. DBAN will permanently erase all data on the selected drive.

Driver Installation

After the Windows installation is complete, you may need to install drivers for your hardware. Most drivers can be found on the manufacturer's website.

By following these steps, you can effectively reset your hard disk using DBAN and reinstall Windows. This process ensures a clean system and can help resolve issues with your computer's performance or security.