31 MB utility partition

[Steve]

I had to reload a machine due to other software issues.
After I finished, I noticed that a 31 MB utility
partition that was originally on the machine was gone.
My entire drive now has one partition. My machine seems
to "drag" and some processes are slower than usual since
the reload. Does the 31 MB utility partition have to
exist and will it affect performance if it doesn't?

 

[Rocket J. Squirrel]

The default install of retail Windows XP doesn't create a 31 MB partition. I
have a hunch I know what you're talking about. My Dell PC shipped with a
hidden 32 MB partition that contained Dell's diagnostic utilities. Perhaps
other OEMs do this too. In the case of a Dell PC, the same diagnostic
utilities (and more) are also contained in a CD that ships with their
computers.

Rocky