I just got a I6400/E1505 after running a 5100 for the last 3 years (which I was very happy with, but it was time to upgrade). About once a year I would format my 5100's HD to totally clear out the junk and start fresh with a completely clean, non-fragged disk, and I was content to go through the format & reinstallation of of my OS, drivers, applications & data to get my system back to new condition.

However, the 6400 I just got doesn't come with a XP CD, it came only with the Symantec System Restore. From what I understand, this restore tool "returns the system to its initial configuration," deleting all data files and added applications, yet from what I understand, it does this in only 6-10 minutes. That doesn't seem nearly enough time for the system to actually format the main partition, so does this mean it's simply deleting shortcuts to data files & applications but keeping all the accumulated junk that comes with basic usage/surfing?

I've read here on the forum that doing a cold format removes the Symantec System Restore partition and that it can not be replaced, and seeing as I don't have an XP CD with the system, it seems I can't do a clean format and re-install the operating system & drivers. So, am I as stuck as I think I am?

I guess my real question is how thorough is the Symantec Restore? Is it actually going to clear my HD of all data/applications/accumulated junk and really start from scratch (which is what I want), or does it just "pretend" to clear the disk?