Hi I have an odd problem.. When I start the PC.. it almost swiftly load winxp and "seems" ready .. The I click the internet icon OR the email icon.. and nothing happens for like 2-3 mins ??? Then I get a popup saying my automatic update is turned off.. or that my firewall is not active.. and then after 1 min more.. my internet and email runs ok?? VERY annoying. plz help !! Best regards Morten

I think you are seeing the appearance of the Windows Desktop as an indication that your computer is ready for use. If you watch the System Tray, by the Clock, you'll probably see Program Icons continue to appear, this is an indication that Windows is still loading Startup programs. The more Software you have in Startup, the longer the wait. If this is the case, there is not much point in trying to access other programs till Windows finishes loading software. There is nothing to learn from someone who already agrees with you.

Hmm Is there then a way to speed things up.. ?? On this particular PC, I only really uses the web and the email. Hence dont care if Word or similar is ready. Best Regards Wamphyri

I just tested it.. after a normal boot (1 min or so).. the system is ready.. no cpu usage or programs loading.. (cpu usage of 2-3%) .. BUT when I then click email or internet icon.. the system hangs.. eg. If I click the internet icon.. the system fast show a url of google (my default) ..but no google search bar.. just blank page.. after like 2-3 mins an pop-up says.. your windows firewall has been deactive you are in danger click he to resolve (or something like that).. after 30 sec more.. the Harddisk spins.. and google is ready ??? Something is bad..never seen this before.. and it isa fresh installment.. I run Avast free edition.. and spybot... can they be of blame.. orsomething needs tweeking ???