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