Hi,

I use a Dell Dimension 4550 with 2.53GHz and 512MB RAM running on OEM WinXP SP2 fully updated and protected.

It has the original 80GB HD as well as an external 160GB HD (both with about 50-60% free)

From switch on to ready to operate takes about 80 seconds. How does this compare with what would be considered "standard" for this type of machine.

More importantly, how can I do better?

 

Note that the machine is virus- and spyware-free and only six programs are checked in the MSCONFIG>StartUp box.

It seems to me that an inordinately long time is spent "Loading your Personal Settings" (about 20 seconds). I would like to hear what the experience of others is in this area.

 

Thanks for your comments in advance

Paul