Why doesn't Windows 7 offer the low level format?

[Berryracer]

During the setup, when you format a partition, it happens almost instantly. So I believe that is the QUICK Format. So how would one do the complete slow format?

And when shall I be doing the slow format anyway?

 

[corkyg]

The slow or complete format is not a low level format. LL format requires special software.

 

[Berryracer]

The slow or complete format is not a low level format. LL format requires special software.

Ohhh, so what's the difference between the Slow and Quick Format?

And when would want want to do a quick level format?

 

[corkyg]

If it has never been done, I would go for the full format so that the drive gets fully mapped and any bad sectors are mapped out. Quick just rewrites the MBR.

http://www.extremetech.com/extreme/80478-tech-myth-2-quick-format-vs-full-format

With today's humongous drives (TB+) a full format takes a lot of time. Many users are impatient and want instant gratification, so they go for Quick. If the drive has previously been formatted, then Quick is OK. I'm assuming a cherry drive.

 

[Berryracer]

Ah, I understand. Thanks for that

 

[JackMDS]

If the HD is already partitioned and was formatted.

Quick Format just erases the File Allocating Table.

As a result the old files are still in existence but can Not be accessed in a regular manner, in time the new files erase the old and use the space. The old files (as long as they are there) can accessed if needed with special software.

Slow formatting goes all over the drive and cover everything.

For personal use it OK to use the quick format. If there is security concern and One want the old files to be wiped out more thoroughly, use the "slow" formatting.

P.S. The MBR is established by the partitioning and the Primary/Active setting.