Performance Options in XP

Hello- In System Properties> Performance Options, I have a question regarding the Processor Scheduling. Why, when I bias this option to 'Programs', does my system always default the setting back to 'Background Services'?... I am trying to keep this relic machine running as fast and efficiently as possible.
OS= Windows XP Professional SP3 PC= Pentium 4 2.97GHz, 4GB installed RAM- 3.11GB showing.
Thanks in advance for any help.
tim

 

I'm have a problem seeing what you see. I just reinstalled XP on this computer and my default is on "Programs" !!
Also a tool such as Toolwiz will optimize these settings for you.

http://www.majorgeeks.com/Toolwiz_Care_d7330.html

 

Like I said- I set it to 'Programs', and I'll go back a few days later and it has set itself to 'Background Services'. I have run SFC.EXE /SCANNOW to no avail.

 

you do click OK, not Cancel, after changing the setting?

 

Do you have any software installed that is running background processes and may be re-setting that option?

Also, to improve performance:
Control Panel > System > Advanced tab > Performance - Settings > Visual effects

select either Adjust for best performance or Custom
I use the Custom setting with Both Show shadows... checked and also
Smooth edges of screen fonts and Use drop shadows for icon labels on desktop.

 

Ahh, let me think a minute!....ahh...ahh...ahh...Yes! and :cool

 

The only thing I have starting up and running in the background is avast! Internet Security 7 2012, and that is not doing it.

As far as the Visual Effects go, I run the same Custom set-up you are running.

I am grateful for everone's input... THANKS!... I do have a couple of manual start utilities that MAY be messin' with things. I don't think so, though, because this just recently started to happen. Some of my hardware in this relic is becoming a bit suspicious- HDD, RAM, and mobo. :wave

 

Greetings, timw128...

Couple of quick observations/questions:

A.: Is the machine doing this on its own while idling, or B.: Does the machine go into a hibernate/sleep state and upon 'awakening' exhibit the symptom, or C.: Do you turn the machine off/restart with the displayed symptom?

Also, have you booted the machine into Safe Mode and attempted to discern if this is a Windows problem or if the symptom is being caused by some 3rd-party software?

 

Yes, I believe it is doing it on its own. No, it does not hibernate. When I arise in the morning, I turn said machine on. It is on all day long, and when I retire for the night, I shut it down- saves on HDD life.
No, I haven't had a notion to go to Safe Mode.
OK, I just checked the status and it is still where I set it- biased towards 'Programs'.
Thanks!
tim