When i switch on the computer, it sits idle for about five minutes with the Hewlett PAckard Logo on the screen before BEEPING and kick starting itself.

It then works fine, but quite slow.

I think it started doing this after defragging the machine.

Any ideas what to do?

Thanks,

Katiekatie.....what operating system are you using?WINDOWS ME sorry.Virus scanners
AVG Free
-- Anti virus scanner


Anti spy/malware
Microsoft Antispyware
-- Anti spyware scanner. Windows XP Home and Professional only.
Spybot Search & Destroy
-- Anti spyware scanner
Adaware SE Personal
-- Anti spyware scanner

Firewalls
Using only one firewall is advised. Dual firewalls may cause problems.
Using a hardware firewall and a software firewall is even more adviced.
ZoneAlarm Free
-- Free firewall - more user friendly
Sygate Personal
-- Free firewall - more configuration options

Removal tools
The following files are not substitutes for the ones described above.
They are either diagnostic tools or removal tools for malware of a certain kind

HijackThis
-- Manual malware remover. Post the HijackThis log generated only if requested!
McAfee Stinger
-- Virus removal tool. No substitute for a fully functional virus scanner!
CWshredder
-- CoolWebSearch removal tool. Widely known and persistant Hijacker.

Easy Cleaners
-- Freeware REGISTRY scanner
Registrar Lite
-- Excellent replacement for Windows Regedit
Crap Cleaner
-- Freeware registry scanner/history cleanerDisconnect pc from the net.....reboot pc hold down the f8 key< chose safe mode>......and use a trojan/scan.....from the muli list above.........or download spysweeper from weboot.com....or trendmicro on line scan..........i would advise if you use these programs.....disable system restore.... RIGHT click my computer click properties click performance click file system click troubleshooting....tick the system restore box....okKatie:

Finding the cause to startup (and shutdown) problems is an art and a science.  It's a science because there are certain methods of troubleshooting you should FOLLOW to find the cause.  It's an art because the more you troubleshoot startup problems, the better you get at it.

You may have to put on your detective's hat and follow the instructions posted by Raptor and Merlin, then follow the instructions in this Knowledge Base article:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/188867/EN-US/#appliesto

The article is for Windows 98, but it applies to Windows ME, as well.

If you get stuck at any step in the troubleshooting process, just let us know and we will talk you through it.  If you are willing to make the effort, then together  we just might solve your PC mystery!

DocHave you downloaded anything resent?That you are aware of?