I have the DIM E520  1.86 Duo Core 2M Processor - after upgrading to Vista, I am experiencing random, temporary freezes.  Is there a fix for this? 

 

I also have an error that now pops up (Error -5), Dell has it as an unresolved issue and will call me back in 2-3 days.  Can anyone help?

I had numerous performance and stability issues with an XPS 410 with vista. I put up with it for about 3 weeks and then solved all the problems by installing windows XP pro. I know that's not the answer you wanted to see but I have dealt with computers on my job since 1981 and IMHO vista is a bloated, poorly designed operating system. 

Has anyone here heard of a solution for the system freezes?

Being fairly new to computers, can I go back and install Windows XP.  Like a restore point or something and just forget all about Vista?

Mazed, To install XP you will need a copy of the XP CD ROM with a software key or COA. If your machine shipped with vista the software license number on the case is good for vista only. You will also need the Dell device driver disc for win XP or you will have to download drivers from the Dell support website. The driver disc that ships with vista is good for vista only.

Google "a cost analysis of windows vista content protection" Look for the article by Peter Gutmann, When you get there,  scroll down to 'decreased system reliability' This may be the reason for vista's stability issues.

Mazed,

 

See my postings (near the end) in the Dimension 9200 Freezes thread which began on 2/24.

 

I have solved my system freeze problem.

 

Have you resolved on your end?

 

jdavidm