Format versus Quick Format

When doing a clean install of Windows XP, after you’ve selected the partition where XP will be installed, you are presented with the option to format the drive or partition. The format options are:

Format the partition using the NTFS file system (Quick)
Format the partition using the FAT file system (Quick)
Format the partition using the NTFS file system
Leave the current file system intact (no changes)

The difference between the regular format versus the quick format is whether or not the volume is scanned for bad sectors using the chkdsk command. Both methods remove the files from the volume.

See Microsoft Knowledge Base Article:
Differences Between a Quick Format and Format During Windows XP Setup (Q302686)

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For many months now I've been posting a reminder about 'Patch Tuesday' or 'Second Tuesday' as it has come to be known when Microsoft releases the latest round of updates for Windows XP and other products.

If you're using a Microsoft operating system (and it's likely you are or you wouldn't be on this site) it's once again time to head for Windows Update for the latest round of Critical and Security updates.

As always, I strongly suggest you read about any update prior to installation, especially updates carrying a less than 'Critical' rating, and have a current system and data backup available in case it's necessary to restore the system to a pre-patch condition.

More info at Microsoft Security Bulletin Advance Notification

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The Elder Geek sites contain many articles and suggestions for modifying the Windows operating system. I've tried these tweaks and tips on many systems. Sometimes they work, sometimes not. The point is, ensure you have a current, tested backup of all system and data files and understand how to restore the system in case something goes very wrong. You can still yell at me, but I assume no responsibility for your actions and use of the information and disclaim any legal responsibility for any consequences of such actions.

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