I have a lap top I want to erase the contents of BUT still keep the operating system (Vista) on it... Problem is I do Not have the vista CD.
How do I do That?

Without a recovery disc or a vista disc, your best bet would be to go to Programs and Features in control panel and remove/uninstall each program 1 by 1

After that, go through windows explorer and delete any remaining folders that still may be there

Once you have uninstalled all unwanted software and programs, download and run ccleaner, this will clean/optimize registry and find and remove useless info in registry

ccleaner (Freeware)
Download CCleaner 2.13.720 - FileHippo.com (http://www.filehippo.com/download_ccleaner/)
On the right hand side, click download latest version

without a recovery disc or a vista disc, your best bet would be to go to Programs and Features in control panel and remove/uninstall each program 1 by 1

after that, go through windows explorer and delete any remaining folders that still may be there

Once you have uninstalled all unwanted software and programs, download and run ccleaner, this will clean/optimize registry and find and remove useless info in registry

ccleaner (Freeware)
Download CCleaner 2.13.720 - FileHippo.com (http://www.filehippo.com/download_ccleaner/)
on the right hand side, click download latest version




Thank you for the tips. So Vista doesn't have the same utility to clear all installed programs while still leaving the OS intact... I forget what it's called, it's like backing your computer up to Zero... ok thank you for your answer!

No, just reinstall from scratch

no, just reinstall from scratch

I don't have the disk though

If no avail disk to reinstall from scratch, just use suggestions above
To clean up what you can, should get most of it but won't be starting fresh

I have a VIAO with a hidden partition. This allows bringing machine back to start.
What Laptop do you have?

I have a Gateway T-1412.