Windows Media Center 2005

Is this software just this bad or what? I just got a Dell E510 w/ media center and I have never seen a computer hangup this much without ever installing any software. It has Norton Ghost, could this be the problem? Looking for some ideas.

 

Without ever installing any software you say....

So, I take it that you have been using the security software that came pre-installed? (usually McAfee)?

Also, how long have you had this machine, and what have you been using it for?

Have you done any updating?

heh, anytime we get a new Dell workstation, the FIRST thing I do is to remove all the pre-installed crap. McAffee isn't worth it. There are free programs that do as good, if not better jobs. That's aside from the point though.

 

Opened the box yesterday. Removed McAfee and let the system update on the web. Just installed Office and ZoneAlarm. I will work on getting the other Dell stuff off but I was surprised how bad it was out of the box. I am going to use this computer in my office and maybe as a server for my data.

 

So, from the sounds of it, you have no protection against viruses and spyware?!?!?

I would recommend that you visit the malware removal thread, paying particular attention to the part where it refers you to the how to protect yourself from malware thread. When you are finished, you will have a clean system, as well as an excellent, redundant defense against future problems. If after this you still have a problem, then post back, and we can troubleshoot further.

 

Yes, installed Windows Defender, Ad-Aware, CCleaner, and Zone Alarm. That should keep me good for awhile. I am trying Defender for the first time as I have used AVG on other systems and been happy with that. I am used to running XP Pro and this is my first computer with Media and it just seems much worse right out of the box. Getting McAfee off was a big plus.

 

You do realize that Windows Defender is an antispyware app, and not an antivirus app, right? The two can cohabitate. I love AVG myself. I hope you haven't been going without AV!

Can you describe what you are typically using the computer for at the time of the hangups? Do you get error messages, or just freezes? What startup programs do you have running at windows load? To find out, do the following:

1. Hit windows key + r (or click start --> run)
2. Type 'msconfig' (without the quotes)
3. Hit enter (or click ok)
4. Select the 'Startup' tab

Here you will see a list of all the programs that run when you load windows. Eliminate as many as you feel comfortable.