Re: I have to erase my hard drive - what happens to the internet?
1. Stop the Presses. Wow! That got my attention! Upon closer reading, it appears we have just another user with computer problems. By design, the internet will continue to grind away; with or without you.
Like "soybean", I'm wondering why you have the desktop between the laptop and the internet.
2. Desktop. You have options (
but backup data first):
a.
Disable third party startups. Use "msconfig" utility to disable all non-Microsoft entries from the "Startup" tab. To access: Start -> Run -> type "msconfig" without quotes, OK -> select "Startup" tab. Uncheck the boxes. Reboot. Let us know if that makes a significant difference.
If you're feeling particularly bold, check box to hide all Microsoft entries, then on "Services" tab; uncheck everything (except Microsoft entries which shouldn't be displayed at this point - but look carefully). Reboot. Does this make a significant difference?
b.
Run diagnostics on the hard drive. Failing hard drive could slow the system. Most hard drive manufacturers provide free diagnostic software that you download and burn as a bootable image to a CD-R disc. Look for this on their web site support pages or see
Hard Drive Diagnostics Tools and Utilities.
c.
Clean the system. Scan for and remove all the "bad boys" from your system. See the "Computer Hope Forums -> Software ->
Computer Viruses and spyware" subcategory for this. Start with
Computer Hope Virus and Spyware section Guidelines.
d.
Wipe the disk clean and reinstall the operating system.
3. Laptop. Reconfigure it to connect directly to the Netgear wireless router.