How to Uninstall Windows Vista

Unless your Windows Vista was installed on a multi-boot configuration, it is not possible to uninstall vista. If Windows Vista is the only OS on your system, the only way to uninstall it is to reinstall the old OS. To reinstall the old OS, you will need the original installation disc of the previous OS.


Before reinstalling, you will have to backup all the files and programs. Then begin the reinstallation by inserting the CD and following instructions. However, if you wish to regain the hard disk space that was used by Vista, you will have to reformat the hard disk while installation. Once installation is complete, you will have to reinstall all the files and programs.

If you chose a multi-boot configuration while installing Vista i.e. if your PC has two operating systems, like Vista and XP, then although you still can't entirely uninstall Vista, you can change the master boot code. This is the code that starts the OS. Once you change this, you can then remove Vista and revert to the other OS -- XP or 2000.

Instructions to Uninstall Windows Vista

To do this, follow the given steps:

  1. Insert the original Windows Vista installation CD into the CD/DVD drive
  2. Go to Start > All programs > Accessories and right click on Command Prompt. Select Run as Administrator. You might be prompted for an admin password or confirmation, which you will have to provide.
  3. Type [DVD drive letter]:\boot\bootsect.exe /nt52 ALL /force and then press ENTER. Within the parenthesis you have to type whatever the DVD Drive Letter may be like F or G.
  4. Eject the CD
  5. Restart the computer; it will boot the other OS that you have installed.
  6. You will have to manually delete the Windows Vista program files, folders and users.

Note: Backing up data is very important. Uninstalling Vista is a complicated procedure and the slightest glitch could prove disastrous for the data you might have on the PC.

Reformatting the Partition

You could also remove Vista by reformatting the partition where it is installed. However attempt this only if it isn't a boot partition, otherwise your PC will not start at all.

If you are considering uninstalling Vista by a complete format of your hard disk, make a point that you have your data backed up on an external device. The other thing you will need is a bootable disk without which you won't be able to boot your computer. You can also take professional help to uninstall Vista that will cost you little money. However, this is a pretty simple DIY task you can learn by some exploring and reviewing.