1. Q. Will adding RAM make my internet downloads faster?

A. Usually not. Download speed is more directly related to modem speed, transfer line condition and internet traffic.

2. Q. My system starts out fine then slows to a crawl. When I shut it down and restart it starts slow again. If I shut down for ten to twenty minutes and restart it runs fast again for a while, then slows down again. What gives?

A. It sounds like a heat problem. Check and see if the power supply fan in the back of the case is turning. If it is, open the case and check the fan on the processor board.

2. Q. My system opens programs and runs very slowly. Sometimes there are pop-ups and/or my homepage has changed and I cannot reset it. The problem seems to be getting worse. What cab I do?

A. Check for "adware", "spyware" and/or virus infections with the latest utilities and updates. While virus infections are still a problem, "adware"and "spyware" infections currently are a much more prevalent problem.

Computer Software:

1. Q. Will Windows XP make my system run faster and more trouble free?

A. Windows XP requires more system resources, places more demands on the processor. This usually results in slower performance of the same computer with earlier versions of Windows. However, Windows XP is much more stable. System recovery utilities are better, but more difficult to work with for the inexperienced.

2. Q. What are your recommendations for system software?

A. For a brand new system, Windows XP Home edition with Service Pack 2, Microsoft Office 2003, Adobe Photoshop Elements 3.0, Avast Pro Antivirus Software, Grisoft AVG Free Antivirus Software, Spyware Doctor, and Backup my PC Software. For an older system with 128 MB Ram, Windows ME, Microsoft Office 2000, Adobe Photoshop Elements 3.0, Avast Pro Antivirus Software, Grisoft AVG Free Antivirus Software, Spyware Doctor, and Backup my PC Software.