Fix that Slow XP the Free Way

Ever notice that when using Windows your computer will slow with time? That's why I use Linux myself but for those of you dead set on windows I've got some easy steps to clean up that computer. Oh, and it's all free.

Got Mcafee or Norton? These firewalls take alot of recourses and take over your computer. What! Oh you thought they were the best right? Well they cost alot and most Windows systems come with a free trial.

Try Zone Alarm. They have a pro version for some cash but the basic firewall is absolutely free. Download the installation file here. http://download.zonelabs.com/bin/free/1025_update/zaSetup_en.exe
Just save it to your desktop don't install it yet.

Now you need some free adware removal. Adaware by Lavasoft is great and yes, it's free. Click Here. http://dw.com.com/redir?pid=10319876&merid=69274&mfgid=69274<ype=dl_dlnow&lop=link&edId=3&siteId=4&oId=3040-8022_4-10319876&ontId=8022_4&dlrs=1&destUrl=http://www.download.com%2F3001-8022_4-10319876.html
Download it to your desktop, once again, don't install yet.

Ok so now we need some virus protection. Free Virus protection. http://free.grisoft.com/doc/5390#avg-anti-virus-free
Same as before save it, don't install it.

Ok so now we have those ready and waiting, lets get rid of some unwanted programs. Go to your start menu, control panel, and click on "add or remove programs". Now go through and un-install anything that you don't use, including Norton and Mcafee. It will actually tell you how often you use it on the right side.

After you've gotten rid of some programs lets go ahead and fix those items that start when your computer does. If you have an internet connection like DSL, you will want to let them run on start-up. Cable and other "always on" connection are just that, always on, so no need to worry.