Format a floppy disk

To save information to a blank floppy disk, you must first format the disk. You can also format a previously used disk, which erases all existing information on the disk.

1. Insert the floppy disk into your computer’s floppy disk drive.

2. Click to open Computer.

3. Right-click Floppy Disk Drive, and then click Format.  If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

   Note

   • Most new computers don't have floppy disk drives. If you don't see Floppy Disk Drive listed in the Computer folder, check to see if your computer actually has a floppy disk drive. If you aren't sure, check your computer specifications or contact the computer manufacturer.

4. In the Format Floppy Disk Drive dialog box, do any of the following:

   • Type an optional volume label in the Volume label box. The volume label is the name of the disk and can be up to 11 characters total, letters and numbers only.

   • To speed up the formatting process by skipping the disk damage check, select the Quick Format check box.

   • To create a disk that can be used to start your computer, select the Create an MS‑DOS startup disk check box.

5. Click Start to format the floppy disk.

   Warning

   • Formatting a floppy disk erases all information currently on that disk.