| There could be several reasons why your computer is | | | | your task bar, just near the clock. If they are both |
| slow to connect to the Internet. When you consider | | | | illuminated, this indicates activity between your |
| what happens in the first moments you are connected, | | | | computer and the Internet. Wait a while until one or |
| its little wonder your favourite web site takes ages to | | | | preferably both go out. Windows and Anti-Virus |
| load. | | | | updates are important, you can turn off automatic |
| First thing that happens is Windows calls home to | | | | updates, but I do not recommend doing this. |
| check for updates. At the same time, your Anti-Virus | | | | If your PC is infected by Spyware or viruses, these will |
| programme also calls home to check for updates. And | | | | also be attempting to call home; some can even alter |
| if you have an Anti-Spyware programme, it will also be | | | | your Internet Connection settings to make it easier for |
| checking for updates. Other programs, like your Mobile | | | | them to do this. Run a Full System Scan with both |
| Phone's PC Suite, for example, or any number of other | | | | your Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware utilities. |
| programs, will also try to call home. All trying to elbow | | | | Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware programs all use much |
| each other aside and all, using up valuable resources. | | | | more resources than they did, even two years ago. |
| Some multi-media programs use an awful lot of | | | | So you should think about adding more RAM to your |
| resources, even if you are not directly using them. | | | | system or a faster CPU, or both. This should help |
| Consider stopping these from automatically starting | | | | compensate for all those competing programs. |
| when you start Windows. You can still access them | | | | If you have add-ons to your browser, Java or Search |
| by clicking Start, and choose them from the menu. | | | | Bars for example, try turning these off to see if things |
| Sometimes it's best just to be patient for the first few | | | | improve. In Internet Explorer click on Tools then |
| minutes after you click connect and wait until they | | | | Manage Add-Ons. These options will return next time |
| have all finished calling home before you start surfing. | | | | you start Windows. |
| Keep an eye on those two mini computer screens on | | | | |