Michael wrote:
>if I do
>decide to reformat the hard drive, can I first safely clone the C: drive or
>copy it out to the removable storage>>


There's no point in cloning a defective hard drive, as you'll only end up 
with the same problems you already have.

Yes, you can copy your individual data files to your external drive (or disks).

There are many reasons for slow performance.

First run a startup manager---or msconfig if you have nothing better---and 
disable ALL startups. Msconmfig won't let you disable any vital system 
files, so it's quite safe to use.

Reboot if see if that helps performance.

Computers do tend to slow down with age, as they accumulate rubbish over 
time. How long since you last defragged, or reformatted?

Often slow performance can be as simple as 2 or more running applications 
fighting each other over the use of resources or conflicting in some way. 
Removing everything from startup will help resolve this possibility.

If that doesn't help, the cause is deeper.  Run several good antispyware 
scans, (I suggest SuperAntispyware, Malwarebytes, Spybot, AdAware---all 
freeware). Spyware can use up valuable resources as it tries to dial home 
and is a common cause of slowdowns.

Run Task Manager and see if anything is using up an unusual amount of 
memory or CPU time. CPU "system idle" should be a steady 97-99% with no 
applications running. Anything less indicates trouble.

Adding RAM only masks the problem at best. Slowdown problems left 
unresolved have a nasty habit of suddenly compounding into serious issues 
or can easily become terminal if you don't eliminate the cause.

Telling you to add more RAM to fix XP problems when you already have 1Gb is 
really bad advice, it's like telling you to add more oil to your car engine 
after it starts making funny noises.

Don Penlington

      "Hold No Punches.." Rode brings you great shareware/freeware
        programs with his honest opinions in this weekly column.
                       http://freepctech.com/rode