Suggestions for Computer Issue?

[Nutzkie]

Just a quick shout-out to any and all tech heads out there who might be able to shed some light on a problem I'm having...

Recently, my Windows XP-equipped PC started experiencing difficulties. Periodically, it will slow to a crawl and freeze. Now this doesn't lock up the machine entirely, as the mouse remains functional, but all open and running programs bind up, including the system clock in the lower-right corner which freezes at what ever the current time is.

This problem appears to occur primarily when I'm logged onto my ISP, but that's not an absolute prerequisite. So far I've ran spyware sweeps, anti-virus sweeps, reset the machine to previous control points and scanned the hard disk for errors. Nothing has fixed the problem.

At this point I've backed up all my data and am ready to run a complete re-installation of Windows, but before I do that, I pose the question to you: Is there anything else I should try before resorting to such drastic measures? I just want to make sure I've used every tool in the box before resorting to the nuclear option in this way.

Thanks in advance!

Nutzkie...

[Zephyr]

Your system could be overheating...

[shockwave]

Was thinking that too last night: physically check the fan and processor to see if there's any dust and crap clogging 'em up?

[Beaglebub]

IIRC, if your computer has an overheating issue, it will start out a work session at normal speed and gradually get slower.

One time I had a dying CD/DVD drive that would occasionally freeze up the whole computer. It caused the problem, even when not in use. Just disconnecting its lines till I replaced the component solved the issue.

[Nulla]

hey nutzkie, been a while since ive been on, but hope this helps ya

how long has it been since you done an OS install?

if it has been a while you're better off blowing it away and start again

its windows after all

before you do check out the event logs and keep an eye out for lots and lots of red crosses in system and see if you have major probs, essentially nothin a rebuild cant fix, but if you got alot of "bad block on disk Diskdrive0" or similar (as it may be disk drive physical faults) you may also need to replace your hard disk....

if you need to also open up ur pc and clear all the dust out - but dont stick your hand in there.

if you are not confident with all/some/any of these things, take it to a pro

p.s. and make sure you have a backup

hope it helps