Hard disks can be a performance problem on any computer, and Windows XP is no exception to the rule. Each time your computer has to read and write to the hard disk, you lose some performance because the disk subsystem, by its nature, tends to be the slowest component of your computer system. There's not much you can do about that fact, but you can take a number of actions to make certain that the computer's hard disk(s) are always running in tiptop shape. Fortunately, Windows XP will help you with at least part of this task; then there are additional configurations you make on your own, and many third-party utilities can help you, as well. This chapter explores these issues to help you make sure your computer's hard disk is working as it should.