Don't get me wrong - I'm not a Microsoft fanboy
but I've found Windows - particularly Windows XP - to be a brilliant, stable, portable and extendable operating system. The main reason for this is because I reinstall the damned thing about once a year and it's like having a new computer all over again. It's not as much hassle as you'd think and it makes a massive difference to performance. Yes, I shouldn't have to do it, but it's what I do to get by and it's fantastic.

If it won't shut down, it's a specific issue. Address the specific issue and it'll be resolved. PCs are like cars: if they're not running right, fix them. Simples.
( Noeli overtheshoulderboulderholderthingstraplatchboobs, Fri 16 Oct 2009, 9:16, 2 replies)

this
entirely.
(bamboozled Can hear you getting fatter, Fri 16 Oct 2009, 10:18, closed)

When
I used to use it, I frequently re-installed. It made little difference.

As to the shutting down issue - it's not just my machine, there's about 6 of use within viewing distance of each other - the machines are of varying specs, and yet they ALL take about 20 minutes to shut down.

Luckily I don't have to worry about it at home any more - my machines now run smoothly, hardly ever need rebooting and they certainly won't badger me to 'update' them for 'security issues'.
(dchurch bah, Sat 17 Oct 2009, 11:58, closed)

Why
does your mate want a pc if he can't even read?! What can he possibly do with it?
(The Boy Monders I have ginger bits in my beard., Wed 21 Oct 2009, 16:53, closed)