computer is 5 months old, start up is very slow 10 minutes to get to log on. Hard drive works ok (usb to sata) no viruses was ok one day not the next.

You should deleter all temporary files, temporary internet files. Start > Run and type "TEMP" and click OK. Delete all. Start > Run and type %TEMP% and click OK. Delete all. You should run disk cleanup utility. Start > type "Cleanmgr" and check all the box and click OK. You should also disable all unwanted startup from startup services. Start > Run and type "Msconfig" and select startup tab Uncheck or disable all unwanted startup and click OK. Restart the computer and then check. You should also check RAM capacity.

I am able to get into windows after about 30 minutes but I can't do anything when I get in due to it being slow. I think it may be a problem with motherboard / processor / or memory.

I am able to get into windows after about 30 minutes but I can't do anything when I get in due to it being slow. I think it may be a problem with motherboard / processor / or memory.

"I think it may be a problem with motherboard / processor / or memory."...if it wasn't the mb/cpu/or memory before then it is unlikely that now. I would try to do a system restore (when you are able to get into windows that is) to the point where you last had it working or F8 boot and load last know good configuration. John W. Borelli IT Specialist OmniIT borelli35

"I think it may be a problem with motherboard / processor / or memory" I doubt it...it's more likely your system is infected. Try booting into safe mode & running anti-virus & spyware scans. Download, install & run the following: CCleaner Slim Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware v1.35 And use MSCONFIG to prevent unnecessary programs from loading at startup: How to use MSCONFIG in WinXP