How can i start anew on my computer?

I have a virus on my computer, I cant get rid of any my computer has to much useless data, so I decided to wipe my hard drive. But Im not sure how to go about doing that safely and how it will turn out. Its an IBM laptop thats at least 5 years old, i deleted an IBM something program once and my computer crashed. if i wipe my hard drive will vital data still be on it? and i dont mean files i already saved all that on a jump drive.How can i start anew on my computer?
I'm guessing that because your machine is 5 years old, it possibly would have XP installed





visit;


http://support.microsoft.com/kb/313348





you need a windows xp set up discHow can i start anew on my computer?
If your have installation CD with OS, just reinstall your windows. If you do not have CD, ask some friend. It is totally safe. You will loose all information, but all drivers will be automatically installed.


Also, I highly recommend installing Windows 7 OS because 7 is much lighter and faster. I would better pay once and will have good computer then using XP.