How to Fix PC Problems With Windows XP Software
Windows XP is a popular Microsoft operating system that was released in 2001. It replaced Windows 98 and Windows 2000 and was later replaced by Windows Vista. While Vista was a sales success, XP continues to be used in both private and professional markets. XP operating performance can decrease with time and use. Users should try fixing the issues before performing a reinstall or hard drive format.
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Instructions
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Check for Windows XP updates. Your system should be automatically checking for and installing updates to your operating system, but if it isn't, click on your "Start" menu to access the Control Panel. Click on "Windows Update" on the left side of the screen and the system will check to make sure it is properly updated.
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Open your anti-virus software. Windows XP typically comes with Norton Anti-virus and a free trial subscription. Make sure it is updated and run a full system scan. Remove any malware files found. This can help restore some functionality and prevent further damage to your system.
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Open "Control Panel" and click on "Performance and Maintenance." From there, choose "Free Up Space on Your Hard Disk" to have the computer eliminate unnecessary files. Then click on 'Rearrange Items on Your Hard Disk to Make Programs Run Faster." Use that feature to defragment your hard drive. This could take several hours.
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Restart the computer and enter Safe Mode as it starts by holding F8. If the computer works in Safe Mode, a bare-bones version of XP, restart again and run the system normally to test its performance.
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Tips & Warnings
If the computer is still having performance problems, you may need to have it serviced or to reinstall XP.
Avoid editing the computer's program (registry) files unless you really know what you're doing. You could permanently damage your operating system.
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