Question : What are the steps to re-install windows xp to make it run faster?

I have a 5 yr old Dell XPS laptop that has served well.  I added Ram last yr that brought it up to 2 Gig. It still runs well but I would like to clear off the things I don't need anymore and re-install windows xp fresh.  What do I need to do?  What are the steps, like where do I save all my programs and do I buy software to transfer everything back?

Thanks
Art

Answer : What are the steps to re-install windows xp to make it run faster?

there is no need for cleaning or scanning the disk - since you are going to wipe it.
normally the procedure is simple :
-boor from the Xp install cd -  and when it asks what to do with the partitions, Delete the old partition on which XP was installed - then continue the install.
if for a special reason, you want to wipe the disk before installing, i recommend DBAN(also on ubcd) :  http://dban.sourceforge.net/
http://www.ultimatebootcd.com/      

here a complete guide for installing XP, as well as all other options :    http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html