Slow computer

[Tefler]

This PC, using Windows XP, has started running very slowly, particularly on start up, when it can take a good 5 mins for the thing to decide to do anything.

We are running Norton Internet Security, which does a check on boot up, but I'm sure it hasn't always been this slow.

Only 13.2 GB out of 132 have been used on the c drive, so I don't think it can be that. I've defragmented it and done a disk cleanup as well as running check disk, none of which threw up any explanation.

Is there anything I can do? Or have I just become impatient?

[beebrook39]

There have been lots of past posts on this one....guess what ? Nearly all the systems are running Norton !! Since Symantec took over , the suite has become very very resource hungry..One of the quirks about this issue is that some peoples setups seem to run reasonably well and other users suffer the Biig..Biig slowdown.Norton programmes are well respected..but they take a dislike to certain other applications that may be running.On one PC that I checked. I did a thorough drive clean up and defrag of both files and memory.Maximised the pagefile system as well and the startup was still poor..Asked the owner if he minded me removing the Norton Suite and he agreed.Did a restart with AVG antivirus installed and ZoneAlarm Firewall and Firefox as browser...System booted from Boot screen to stable Windows desktop in 48 seconds..Like I say ...Norton works for some folks...but its very...very resource hungry..If you can live with the slow boot ..stay with Norton ..If not..give the others a try...Good Luck !!

[Tefler]

You could well have put your finger on it there, beebrook. Maybe I'll just put up with it, I feel secure with Norton.