I have a dell - P4 1.8 GHz - 128MB of RAM. Whenever I log onto my username, it takes forever to load the desktop. Before I upgrade the memory, I want to make sure there aren't other problems. I have run software to clean the registry and also am current on my antivirus and spyware protection software. One thing I have noticed is that the page file always seems to be pretty close to maxed out. Is this a sign that I need more memory or is there some other way to free up space. I am also curious about programs that open when I start the computer. Is there a set of "standard" applications that I should expect to see running in the background. Would a RAM upgrade fix this? If I upgrade to 512 MB of RAM will the desktop pop up right away or will it still have to load?

You have the right processor power, but RAM is actually how much apps and request can be ran at a certain or same time. It would still have to load but it would be a lot faster, trust me, increased RAM makes a world of a difference, and you should keep the 128 MB along with the 512 MB. Your CPU is quite slow. Over clocking is an option, but replacing it wouldn't be a bad idea.

What is over clocking and how do I go about doing it? You may consider going to Download.com and getting RegCleaner, and use that to clean up your registry. It's nice to have it even if you don't clean up your registry with it. It shows a lot, startup programs, etc. It will also backup what you deleted from the registry so you can restore it if you suddenly start having a problem. RegSupreme 1.0 costs $12.95 now.

If you upgrade it would be a very good choice: it would speed it up, but you should use the free tools windows have, such as disk cleanup, disk defragmenter, get a registry cleaner and use scandisk to fix errors that can cause slow boot time, just for the basics.

The best thing to use is pc booster software, the free trial only fixes a little, but the full version REALLY boosts your computer. It tells you every detail problem that is slowing down your computer, all the technical stuff. You simply click optimize and your done and your pc restarts and you will see the difference.

Keep your backgroung programs to a minimum, keep the junk files cleaned from your hard drive, and keep your files defragmented.

Remove background programs by running 'msconfig', choosing 'selective startup', going to your startup tab, and unchecking everything except your registry checker and your malware protection programs.

Junk files reside in many places and the best way to clean them up is with a little program called Window Washer by Webroot. If you don't have that, use your Windows Explorer and delete everything in your temp, temporary internet files and recycle folders.

Run defrag from the programs-accessories-system tools folder.

Because when it comes to speeding up a computer that can be very tricky, because of all the applications and files that gather up after time.