How to install fresh OS?

I have an off the shelf Compaq that I am planning on installing a fresh OS on. This is to remove all factory installed software (plus adware and spyware). I was wondering how to best go about this. I have already backed up all of my files that I want to keep. Do I need to format my hard drive? If so, how do I do this and how do I then install the OS. Also, Should I get XP home or Professional? Thank you, Alex

If you give Compaq a call at 800-652-6672 they should be able to walk you through the format procedure. Its not that hard with XP caus you pretty much put in your OS cd and boot from cd and delete any old partitions, format your drive....etc... If you had a lot of spyware/adware I would highly advise to format the drive to get rid of that stuff for safetys sake due to the fact that it imbeds its self into your computers registry and is a pain if you don't format.

Thanks for the help guys. I also have a 30GB 7200RPM hard drive from an old computer that I was considering using as the system drive. How do I go about hooking this up?

I also have a 30GB 7200RPM hard drive from an old computer that I was considering using as the system drive. How do I go about hooking this up? I would get a firewire or USB box to install the drive in. You can then format it there, and install OS and so on. Afterwards put the drive in your laptop and use the firewire box for backups and so on. G.

Gunnar , I do not have any laptop experience...but remember (on desk tops) you can't use an external USB or FW drive to boot the OS from... good luck