my computer is running real slow?

Question

I have done a defrag, clean, adaware and spybot. This has not helped at all.

it was fine yesterday, what can it be???

it's an intel pentium 3 with 256MB

yes virus scan done

Answer 1

I would suspect Spyware. I recommend that you go to http://www.download.com and get AD-AWARE and SpyBot Search & Destory. Install, run, update and scan your computer with both programs.

This double whammy will help keep you safe and running faster.

Good luck and Happy Computing!

Answer 2

Have you cleared out the temporary internet files and cookies? Are the all of the fans running properly? How full is the hard drive? If you have only 256MB of memory, there's the problem. You are already feeling the "need for speed"!! Memory is what you need, at least 512MB to run WinXP and the programs that you have on there efficiently. Microsoft says it takes 256MB MINIMUM memory, just to run Windows! Add your other programs, and 256MB isn't going to get it!! If your running Norton, that thing is a system hog. Can it, and get AVG antivirus for free off the web.

Answer 3

What is the age of the computer?
Who is the manufacturer?
What is the model?
What is the model number?

1. Right-click on the "My Computer" icon
2. Left-click on the "Properties" option
3. Wait about 10-20 seconds
4. Look for the letters RAM
5. What is the number that corresponds to the letters RAM?

a. 128MB
b. 256MB
c. 512MB
d. 1024MB

My first thought is you do not have enough RAM in your computer. Without more info I can't give you a direction to go.

Answer 4

If you have religiously done your anti-virus and anti-spyware sweep and performed maintenance. Then you have to assume there is undetected spyware that is in your system.

To determine hiding spyware programs you can start by going to the following Online Anti-Spyware site:

http://www.bitdefender.com
http://housecall65.trendmicro.com/

If it does not solve your problem then:

A knowledgeable person can click open the Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Dlt) , select Task Manager, go to processes and determine what application is using most of your resources in the Process tab. The ones utilizing the most Kilobytes are open to suspect and detective work must begin with them.

Since many Image Names on the list are cryptic, you will need a professional to determine what application it is --- if you do not recognize it first hand. To do it yourself, you will have to Google each cryptic Image Name and determine its identity or functionality.

Finally, if it is an older computer wear and tear is taking its toll.

Answer 5

You didn't mention a virus scan.

Answer 6

do a system restore. go back one or two day's