#1 - Cd drive storage is used for backup only...you don't put files you need to access on them. #2 - It might have slowed down the computer on windows 3.1 but if it does now, it's unnoticeable (plus it's still on the harddrive, C:WindowsDesktop, it's just a folder that is shown all the time.) #3 - The file system is as complicated or as simple as you make it. There are several sets of quicklaunch buttons / start menu / key commands you can assign if you so desire. Word up PC...word up.