The /s switch makes the partition or diskette bootable. This includes some system information in the boot sectors as well as copying some system files to the partition. Since only a primary partition can be bootable, it does not make any sense to use the /s switch with partitions other than those you want to boot from. Doing so is not only useless, it also takes up space on the partition with files that serve no purpose. Peter Shkabara, P.E. ____________________________ Computer Science Instructor Columbia College - Sonora, CA [log in to unmask] [log in to unmask] http://pesh.what.cc -----Original Message----- When formatting a hard disc should all partitions be formatted with the /s switch or only the primary partition ? What problems would it cause if all have it and how could the problems be fixed without reformatting? Paul Ryan The NOSPIN Group provides a monthly newsletter with great tips, information and ideas: NOSPIN-L, The NOSPIN Magazine Visit our web site to signup: http://nospin.com