Computer problems - help please

[Chickadee]

My desktop PC (windows XP) has gradually been running slower and slower. It takes an age to come on and sometimes it doesn't do that properly and I have to restart it.

I have checked for viruses (using Avast and Spybot) and it is okay. I regularly defrag and use Ashshampoo to clear old files and stuff.

Is the only option left (apart from buying a new PC!!) to reinstall?

If it is the only option, is it as simple as putting the disc in marked Reinstallation CD and following the instructions?

Thanks guys

[Chickadee]

Also, forgot to mention that sometimes when I use one of the drop down menus (for example- bookmarks) and click on the item I want, one of the option will stay on the screen in a little box.
Very strange!!

[lilsecret]

Sounds like you have picked up a bogey . . . . try a system restore

[deggers316]

think a re-install is the only option here
i know its a pain loading all your progs again and updates but it will (should) make it run like new

[carlton23]

Have you tried disc cleanup or a monthly defragmentation. Also get rid of a lot of rubbish that you no longer need.

[puternut]

Also get a registry checker - cleanup

You might be trying to run programs you do not need to run or have entries there that are leading nowhere