My computer is running extremely slowly. I have tried everything I can think of. Everything was fine until I restarted my computer and got a complete memory dump when seconds after getting into Windows. Using some analyis I found Norton AV was corrupted somehow, as soon as I removed a norton driver the computer actually loaded windows normally and will. However, it has been VERY SLOW. I tried reinstalling windows using the upgrade method so I wouldn't lose anything, and though it freed up space, it is still SLOW. I have ample resources, and i cannot find anything running that shouldn't be. I have run all my Systemworks diagnostics tools, and they pick up nothing, I've defragged. No effect. I am sure it is software related since it was working fine right up until I rebooted. Any ideas? Thanks Scott (sorry so long winded)

Use performance monitor tests along with event viewer to help you zero in on the problems.

Also, check for the presence of spyware and Ad-ware. Free programs such as Ad-aware, Spybot Search & Destroy, and SpywareBlaster are excellent at detecting, removing and protecting against spyware.

I have used adware with the newest reference files, and it finds nothing except my blank IE homepage. I maybe should have mentioned that it is not just programs, but windows itself. At the windows splash screen the little animated meter thing pauses on several instances. Once I enter my password to log in it takes forever to load up my taskbar items and desktop icons.

check the msconfig -startup for something loading on the boot. Also check task manager for any resource hog.

you might also want to check your plug ins that are enabled in norton. i've experienced that that in norton their is a plug in for office if this is enabled it tends to bog down your system. besides that install adaware do a scan check your startups in msconfig.

From my experience, Ad-Aware will not really update its defs unless you have SE Personal, even though it says it is downloaded & working. Before you update, Uninstall the current version, DL & install, then update the new, Run, If you find VX2, go back to Lavasoft & get the Vx2 Plug-in (Follow Instruct to the letter). http://housecall.antivirus.com (Free On-line Virus & trojan scanner) If all else fails.