This problem just started happening out of the blue. Windows XP Home takes a good 30-45 seconds to load to a state where I can run programs but only on initial startup or a restart (as in when I switch users, everything starts like it used to). It's not any taskbar programs as I have tried disabling all of them, but the problem persisted. I figure it must be a service, or a driver that isn't present or corrupted that Windows is trying to load. What should I do to diagnose and fix this problem!?

Most likely its a service that is disabled or wont start Check under your event viewer under comp management and look at the startup errors Post back with the messages if you wish peace

I have been having the exact same thing for about 2 months now...I hardly ever reset because its so annoying. At the startup, it takes roughly 1 min befor eI hear the windows startup sound. I can click around but only for a few seconds before it lags. Im running on Win XP, and have already scanned all Spyware programs to remove bugs but its still there. Where do I check my event viewer/ comp management for startup errors? PLease help.

Ok, sorry I found the startup errors. The majority everytime I startup is the same one. "The MySql service failed to start due to the following error: The system cannot find the path specified. For more information, see Help and Support Center at http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/events.asp." I looked for it in my add/remove programs, and its there, but I guess someone in my household didnt delete it properly. Now everytime its trying to startup its looking for it. I cant find the exact version to reinstall and delete it again. Does someone know where it is in my registry so I can manually delete it? Or any other method. Im VERY desperate.

try this: Start/run-- type in 'MSCONFIG' Select startup tab and take a look there. HAND!

yeah Ive already done that, the only programs running on startup is my popup blocker, and my msn msnger. this is so annoying Im thinking of flashing my bios. But I dont know the exact model of my motherboard. ITs an Asus. I found some numbers on the actual board, can someone tell me if this is the right code/model? Its a P4 1.3gigz. P4T/WOL/WOA - UAY Can someone help me flash my bios?

Hey guys...you're having the same probs as me! Flashing the bios won't do a damn thing! Besides I did it just now for an unrelated reason and nothing changed in Windows. As for startup errors in the event viewer....I restarted and then checked immediately....no errors found! What's going on??!!