/ Windows XP Suddenly Slow

Windows XP Suddenly Slow

I am using Windows XP service pack 3, and suddenly when I try to start the computer, it takes forever to bring up Windows, and then forever to bring up Mozilla or IE8 or anything else involving the internet. Also, the sound on my computer is broken up, which just started. My CPU load fluctuates between 10% and 100% suddenly, with no programs running. I am also running Norton Internet Security, and am wondering if this could be the problem. Please HELP!!! I’m at wits’ end! Celeste Stewart

Sudden Windows XP Slowdowns

Since your computer just started to act up, your computer may have a virus or spyware infection. Norton Internet Security itself shouldn’t be causing such a load on your system. However, hidden programs running in the background could be to blame. Even with a good antivirus solution such as Norton Internet Security installed, it’s not unheard of for the occasional malware to infiltrate your system. After all, antivirus developers are always one step behind the malware developers. Fortunately, it doesn’t take too long for them to catch up. When they do, they release new antivirus definitions through updates.

System Restore

If you have System Restore enabled on your computer, check to see if a restore point exists from before Windows XP slowed down. If so, all you need to do is rollback your computer to this earlier point in time and your computer will return to its previous, well-conditioned state. System Restore does not affect your data but it does reverse any updates you may have received since then, so be sure to update Windows and Norton once the system is restored.

Another possibility is that a Windows update adversely affected Windows XP. Occasionally, an update is corrupt or incomplete, causing problems with the computer. Microsoft eventually updates the update and the problem goes away. When an update issue is suspected, you run Windows Update again to see if a new update has been released. If not, use System Restore to rollback the computer. Try updating again after the restore. A fresh update might take place, providing you with the protections released without the ill effects of the first attempt.

Potential Virus Infection

Depending on the version of Norton installed, your computer may or may not have real-time detection enabled. Even with real-time detection, undiscovered malware can get in and cause system slowdowns and other damage. A slight window of opportunity exists when your security software is not yet aware of the new malware. Once your product is updated, your computer will be protected from future infections but the current damage will remain until your system is scanned.

With that in mind, it’s smart to update Norton and then run a full system scan. You can also try o free online scan from another vendor such as Microsoft’s Safety Scanner or Trend Micro’s Housecall to see if these other vendors have detected a threat that Norton hasn’t yet detected.