computer is slow, any suggestions?

[Roswell]

I have a Dell Inspiron 5160 with 512K RAM which has run very slowly since I purchased it. This is a major problem when multitabling and using Pokertracker. Any suggestions on how to speed this sucker up? I should point out:

1) I already removed the spyware with Spybot.
2) I have Norton AntiVirus running all the time
3) I suspect some processes are being auto-loaded that I don't really need, but how do I know which ones?

[Mars357]

defragment the drive = easy speed increase....

[mostsmooth]

start-programs-accessories-system tools-disk cleanup
i dont know if this does anything other than get rid of crap, but it seems to work for me (probably just psychological, but who cares)

[Corey]

start->run->type "MSCONFIG"

that will show you what is starting when your computer starts up.

[EliteNinja]

512KB of ram?

"16KB of memory should be enough for anybody" - Bill Gates

[Dead]

512 K!=512 KB.

And the quote is 640K.

[Luzion]

I am hoping you mean 512megs of memory. Anyway, make sure you disable Norton Antivirus when you begin to start playing poker and load up your progs like PokerTracker. Just disabling AutoProtect should be ok, and just turn it back on when you finish.

[astroglide]

it probably has a 4200rpm hard drive, which will make the whole experience suck

[Roswell]

thanks for the suggestions so far. I defragged the HD and I'll run disk cleanup. two questions:

1) i know how to run msconfig, and it shows many programs being started. how do I know which ones i need for normal operation?

2) astro, how do I know what speed my hard drive is?

[mostsmooth]

you should note any differences after each step, see what the problem was

[InchoateHand]

Try some better shoes. If that doesn't help I can put together a personalized training program for it.

[Blarg]

It should be in your manual, or you could call Dell, or look at the specs on their web site.

My guess is it's a slow hard disk, too. Though I would guess it's a 5400, not a 4200. The fast disks are the 7200 rpm ones, and you usually pay a premium for them -- sometimes a rip-off type premium. As for the 4200 ones, I'm not even sure they make those anymore. Astro is computer-savvy, and might have just misstated what he meant.