Final answer:
A technical support representative might use the format command to wipe a storage device such as a hard drive or USB flash drive, erasing all data and making it ready for a fresh start.
Step-by-step explanation:
A technical support representative might use the format command to wipe a storage device such as a hard drive or USB flash drive. This command erases all data on the device, making it unusable and ready for a fresh start. For example, if a user is experiencing persistent issues with their computer, a representative might instruct them to format their hard drive to eliminate any software-related problems.
It's important to note that using the format command permanently erases data, so it must be done with caution. Before using this command, it's advisable to back up any important files to prevent data loss.