reformating

I don't really have a problem with my computer, other than the fact i find myself reformating a little to much, which gets teadious and annoying. The reason i tend to reformat on a regular basis is because i feel that my computer starts lack performance, and that clean reformat feel is nice.

So basically my question is, what's a good way to keep my computer top notch so reformating isn't really an option unless i desperately feel the need to. Any type advice will work, tweaks, programs, etc..

i know a decent amount about computers so don't spare me any details

thanks in advance! if you have any questions just let me know.

also, is there a way i could save my computers status after i do a clean install & install the desired settings & such, so instead of doing a full reformat, i can just pop the cd or whatever in an go from there?

Jam it back in, in the dark.

any other program suggestions to keep my pc virus-free and malware-free

There's nowhere I can't reach.