How to format a computer without windows CD?

[kinky_kat]

Hello,
Does anyone know how to format a PC without a Windows CD? I want to sell my old notebook but before selling, I need to erase all documents including internet history (passwords, personal info,etc).
Is there anything else I can do besides formatting so that all documents on my computer are "PERMANENTLY LOST" and setting on my computer returns to the way it was when I bought it? I don't want anything to be retrievable by going to recycle bin or "system restore"?
I already have everything backed up on another laptop and an external drive.
Thanks

[dizmouk2009]

You could just format it using the external HDD, just download a copy of windows, as long as you have a legit version on the notebook you are allowed to download windows.

[Dodger666]

Download and install the free software Eraser from here: http://www.freewarefi...ser_program_1793.html

Or choose an alternative from here: http://www.freewarefi.../category_17_249.html

Then you can select individual folders/files and erase them. However, some will advise you that people with the know how can still retrieve erased files. Others will advise you take the hard drive out and smash it with a hammer for 100% security.

[ChuckFickens]

I'd use unetbootin to create and boot and nuke usb memory stick and then boot the netbook from the USB stick and wipe the hard drive.

boot and nuke is about as secure as you will get without going down the hard drive + hammer route.

http://unetbootin.sourceforge.net/

http://sourceforge.ne...900_i386.zip/download