Making Windows Run Faster

Windows XP uses several visual effects such as animation, fading menus and more to try to enhance the user experience. While these graphical effects make Windows look pretty, they require extra CPU processing time and RAM to create them.

On an older computer which have slower CPUs and less RAM, these effects can slow down your computer. So help improve performance, you might want to try turning some or all the effects off. I am not going to promise a big improvement in your system's overall performance, but it could help.

To disable these visual effects, do the following:

• In the Start menu, right-click 'My Computer' and select Properties.
• In the Properties dialog box, click the Advanced tab.
• Under the Performance section, press the Settings button.

Play around with the settings and find which ones give you the best balance of attractive visual effects vs. enhanced performance for your computer.