I got reader_s on windows want to switch to Ubuntu

[johnnysnotdead]

So, a few weeks ago i got the reader_s and i am wondering if i completely wipe my hard drive and install ubuntu will the reader_s still affect my computer? My computer is a Dell inspiron 1510.

[Therion]

Reformatting = Cleeeean slate. If you do a complete install of Ubuntu your hard drive can/will be reformatted -- utterly wiping your current Windows install and everything else on the drive. It's the best way to install if you ARE sure you're ready to make the switch to Ubuntu. Have you tried using a LiveCD yet? That's something you should probably do if you haven't yet.

[johnnysnotdead]

Thank you for responding. Im not sure what LiveCD is or how it will help me. I have been wanting to get Ubuntu for a while and this reader_s has pushed me toward the switch. I just want to make sure this virus does not affect Ubuntu.

[Therion]

Thank you for responding. Im not sure what LiveCD is or how it will help me. I have been wanting to get Ubuntu for a while and this reader_s has pushed me toward the switch. I just want to make sure this virus does not affect Ubuntu.
A LiveCD is, basically an install CD. However, you can use the CD in "Live User Mode" which means that you boot from the LiveCD and the contents are loaded into system memory and you can "test drive" Ubuntu without making any changes to your hard drive. The entire OS is contained in, and run from, system memory and the CD itself. It's a little slower to respond since it's not running from your hard drive of course, but it's meant to be a way to test the waters before making the commitment to a full-on hard drive install.

Then if you decide you like what you see, and you find your system's hardware is well detected, you can then choose to install Ubuntu to your hard drive.

[MysticalRiotCandy]

Until BIOS-level malware becomes mainstream and OS independent, reformatting a computer is has basically the same effect as nuking a site from orbit to stop a pandemic.

[glotz]

Besides residing on the hard disk where it can be eliminated by formatting it, it can also creep to the boot sector, just like old good times with floppies. Or even the BIOS as suggested. Probably it's gone.

Welcome to Ubuntu!