I would like to reformat my hard drive, what should I do?

Pratt IT offers support for hard drive reformatting for work computers being used by graduate students, undergraduate TAs, post-docs, and doctorates in the Pratt School of Engineering. Unfortunately, this does not include home and personal computers.

If you would like your hard drive reformatted, please go through the following steps to help speed up the process of reformatting.

1) Call Pratt Helpdesk at 660-5400 or email us at help@pratt.duke.edu. Make sure you include your reason for reformatting so we can verify that reformatting is the only way to solve this problem. For example, a computer littered with spyware does not necessarily need a reformat and could be fixed with software spyware removal tools.

2) If reformatting is the determined route, have a list of programs on hand that you would like reinstalled. Also make sure to list any licensed software that your department may have purchased, such as Office XP or Matlab Toolbox, in a separate list so reinstallation of the software will transition easily. Also have a list of all the folders you would like backed up. You may either have this list handwritten or emailed to us. Bring any installation CDs for software that is uncommon, though Pratt IT has a comprehensive list of software available.

3) Make an appointment with Pratt Helpdesk for a good time to pick up your computer, or you may bring it in. Reformatting is a long process, and depending on the size of the hard drive and speed of the computer, will take anywhere from 1 to 3-4 business days.