Unistalling Linux and installing Windows...or anything else.. :)

[nicrockz961]

Hi
So my b/f bought a second hand computer, and it has Linux Ubuntu 9.1 I believe installed on it. And it is giving problem after problem not letting us install flash, the wireless router, anything. And I have tried using the terminal, going through the sites, installation CD's, etc... But we've given up on that.
My question now is... after I tried installing Windows 7 as our new or dual boot OS, it will not let me do so. It says I do not have enough free space, and such. Also it takes away my option of just reformatting the partitions as well...at least through the set up CD. After research, I know that Linux changes the partitions to EXT3 and Windows 7 needs NTFS, and they can both use FAT32. And I have also learned that Linux also redistributes the partitions and basically takes over and shrinks them down to make this exchange difficult. So what is the best, safest, and quickest way to get Linux off and Windows back? Can I just delete the partitions using the Windows 7 CD and let it redistribute and do it's thing, or will that make the computer a paper weight? We also have absolutely no files, or anything needed to be backed up or saved on this computer, so loosing info is not a concern. And lastly, yes, I know booo Microsoft. I am not completely computer illiterate, but my bf is. So anything that is difficult for me, is 10X's harder for him and Im just done with the frustrations. hehe)
Sooo please please please anyone?!
*Nic*

[directhex]

Boot the Windows 7 install DVD.

When it asks which type of installation you want, click Advanced.

When it asks where you want to install to, click Advanced.

This will unlock the hidden "delete" option. Use it to delete ALL the partitions on the disk, so you only have the one entry left for Disk 0 Unallocated Space. Select it, and click Next to install to it.

[EvanJackPenn]

Be wary though if you are dual booting and decide to then delete the linux partition afterwards. I did that and lost the ability to boot as I deleted Grub. Had to recover the MBR -.-

[oolon]

Boot should be just fine if you are installing windows from CD/DVD as it installs a boot block to the MBR. If your just removing partitions however that could be bad.

[nicrockz961]

Directhex,
Ok, just want some clarification before I go ahead and do this... choosing the delete option from the windows 7 installation disk, will not screw up the hard drive? There are only 2 partitions..both disk 0..one I believe is a recovery partition and the other..I can't remember what its named off the top of my head to be honest. But if I delete the non recovery partition, it will then give me the option to install windows 7 with out any problems?

[directhex]

Directhex,
Ok, just want some clarification before I go ahead and do this... choosing the delete option from the windows 7 installation disk, will not screw up the hard drive? There are only 2 partitions..both disk 0..one I believe is a recovery partition and the other..I can't remember what its named off the top of my head to be honest. But if I delete the non recovery partition, it will then give me the option to install windows 7 with out any problems?

Delete the non-recovery partition, then ask to install on the unallocated space.

You will only encounter an issue if your recovery partition does something bat**** insane to your partition table (e.g. Lenovo do this)