Summary: You do not always have to reinstall XP if your Dell computer is running poorly. Try these steps to save the day.
Steps to Avoid Reinstalling Windows XP on Your Dell
Reinstalling XP on your Dell will typically fix any problems with Windows. However, it isn't always necessary. If your Dell computer is running sluggish, these steps will help bring it back to life and will help you avoid having to take such a drastic measure.
Run Disk Cleanup
This is the first thing you'll want to do in a series of basic maintenance steps. This might free up a lot of deisk space and clear temp files that might be slowing your system down. Go to Start>All Programs>Accessories>System Tools>Disk Cleanup.
Defrag The Harddrive
If it's been a while since you have defragged, this is the time to do it. Go to Start>All Programs>Accessories>System Tools>Disk Defragmenter. Run the defrag.
Run System Restore
If you're having probels with the computer booting properly or causing a lot of software errors, you can attempt a system restore. Doing this will not destroy your data, only take the system back to a point you specify before the problem. Go to Start>All Programs>Accessories>System Tools>System Restore.
Do a Spyware and Virus Scan
Spyware and Viruses are a leading cause of system slowdows. Spyware will use your computer behind your back to load ads, communicate with its "home base" and send itself to other computers, just as a virus would. We have several free spyware and virus recommendations in our Security Section.
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