A low-level format effectively scrambles the data on the hard drive so even the gov't (depending on the method) cannot read it. I want to do this to ensure that the drive starts from scratch.

I don't mind formatting the entire 120GB, because I have an add'l 120GB hard drive attached which will temporarily hold the backed-up files.

Also, I would like to install windows on it's own partition (first 4GB or so - you think that's enough?)...any advice on the best way to do that?

Is that done before or after the Dell Recovery CD?

Sorry Im not sure what you mean by a low level format ?

I found that if I use "Partition Magic" or similar and make my first partition about half as large again as my OS, and put all my files in the second partition then you reinstall XP into this partition and it only needs to format that partition, which doesnt take as long.

You get an option to "quick" or "not quick" format, I was adviced by Dell Support to always use the "not quick format"

You don't need to do a low level format, you just need to reformat.  This is part of the reinstallation of Windows XP.  You will need to boot from the XP Reinstallation CD.  See the following:

http://www.djdenham.com/New%20user%20questions.htm

Steve

XP is a very stable OS, and seldom needs “reformat�.
Since you have nothing to lose, why don’t you try to clean it first?

Spyware/Virus Removal and Prevention

Startup and Temporary Files Cleanup

I've been working with computers for a decade now, and I currently work as tech support. I keep the system clean - that's not the issue.

This is the error message I received the other day which started the problems:


Ever since then explorer.exe (i.e. windows) has been unstable - even with me creating a new profile. I also lost a lot of files during the transition - which makes the push toward a reinstall that much easier.

With XP “experience� enabled it’s not clean already :)
I also know that ZoneAlarm 5 had some issues upon release.

Answering your original question: Using Windows XP CD (during setup) you can remove your existing partition, create a new one, and then format it.
Format can also be done with boot disks:
http://www.bootdisk.com/

Hope this helps.

Do you see an advantage to installing XP on it's own partition - the first 5GB on the drive, and the program files & data on the next partition?

jeffdenman,

There is an advantage to installing XP and applications on a separate partition from data. In the event XP ever needs to be reinstalled the applications will also have to be reinstalled. If they are on the same partition, you will not have to uninstall or delete the apps before reinstalling them. Data on a separate partition will not be affected by a reinstall of XP, so your backup chores will be minimized.

That is a good point, maybe I will do that the next time, but 5 GBytes is way too small. 

OK - my windows dir is 2GB right now, and the program files is 4 - for a current total of 6. I think I'll partition my 120GB drive with 20 in the first partition and 100 in the second - and store the data and files in that second part.

Thanks for the advice!