I want to completely erase the hard drive, and re-install Windows Vista Premium SP1 (64 bit). I assume I need to buy the O.S because I have an HP computer. Jul 16, 2010 Erase Hard Drive and Reinstall Windows. Windows Vista. Has any programs they could recommend to use to wipe a hard drive clean before reinstalling.

1. Reinstall Windows New Hard Drive

You mention that you're trying to 'upgrade' something. Please describe exactly what you are trying to do. To clean off a hard drive and install a new operating system, you simply need to place the new, legal operating system in the DVD/CD drive, let the system boot from the CD, then use the disc's instructions to delete all current partitions, then format the drive and install the operating system. On the other hand, if you simply want to wipe a hard drive so secure and nothing remains, then using a boot disc such as the one at the DBAN link below should get it done for you.

Hope this helps. The Upgrade option moves your files, settings, and programs from Windows Vista to Windows 7 as long as you have the appropriate versions of both operating systems. Microsoft has put out a whole list of webpages which should let you upgrade successfully. Here's a link to one such page: You didn't tell us which version of Windows 7 you've purchased. That's important, you'll need Win7 Ultimate if you want to perform the standard 'upgrade' process from Vista Ultimate which saves all files and settings. You won't be able to 'upgrade' to a lower version of Win 7 from what you already have with Vista, in other words, going 'down' from Vista Ultimate to Win 7 Pro or Win 7 Home Premium, you can't do the normal upgrade which maintains your current settings and data.

Reinstall Windows New Hard Drive

You need to do a clean install which is basically what you want anyway. Hope this helps.