"Will Denny" <willdenny@mvps.org> wrote...
>
> Backing up data files shouldn't be a problem as they normally would not be
> infected. And can then be used after the reinstall.

NOT NECESSARILY TRUE! There are numerous viruses/trojans that can infect MS
Office files, e-mail attachments, and (now) WMF media files, among others.
Before attempting any re-installation of data files, an active anti-virus app
should be installed on the new HD.


> The only sure fire way to get rid of viruses is to perform a low level
> reformat - but you'll have to get info. on how that be done from hard disk's
> manufacturer's web site. That can be fraught with all kinds of problems
> though.

A low-level format is certainly not within the realm of reality for a user with
the OP's apparent level of knowledge. The best he can do on his own is a HD
"wipe" using an appropriate app on an antivirus-protected machine, followed by a
repartition/reformat.