To format a hard drive before you start using it in Windows, use the Disk Management utility; on a Mac, use Disk Utility.

There are a lot of choices that go into deciding between Mac or Windows for your new laptop or PC, including money, your current setups with email and other technology and use for the computer.

Managing Editor Alison DeNisco Rayome joined CNET in 2019, and is a member of the Home team. She is a co-lead of the CNET Tips and We Do the Math series, and manages the Home Tips series, testing out ...