Delete OS from HDD without formatting?

[smjpl]

Hi,

I have a second hdd that has a lot of files I want on it but it also has an old operating system on it that I don't want (I want more free space). Is there anyway to remove the old OS without formatting the drive? When I try to delete manually it won't give me permission to delete it. What are my options.

 

[getochkn]

Do you have enough space on your first HD to copy the files to, then format the 2nd drive and then copy back? Messing with all the permissions to be able to delete all the windows, program files, swap files, hidden files, app settings, local settings and all the other stuff taking up space on that drive is a pain.

 

[smjpl]

No I don't. I went to ssd so I am working with limited amounts of space anyway. I take it my only realistic option is to get another large hdd then. Thanks for the info.

 

[getochkn]

You can do it, it just involves messing with permissions and stuff. A probably easy way would be to burn a Ubuntu live DVD or USB, boot that and then you'll have access to the files fairly easily without the Windows permission stuff and delete the Windows folder and program files anyways. That should free up a big chunk of space.

 

[Hawkeye22]

Take ownership of the windows folder or the drive it's located on then you can just delete the windows folder. Here is instructions for XP, just google for win 7 or your windows OS.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/308421