Vista Ultimate performance issue(s)

[Wy]

I just built a computer with specs of P4 3.46 Intel processor, 2gb ram, 300
h/d, Intel D945GPM mobo, and I'm using the onboard graphics. I have the
Ultimate version of Vista(with all the updates) but it runs a little slow.
The only programs I have installed are Adobe Reader, Avast A/V, CCleaner,
Zone Alarm, Spy Bot and Nero. The only ones I have starting up is the A/V
and the Firewall. Any suggestions on how I can speed it up or why it's
slow? It takes almost 10 secs for a webpage to open. My system has a
base score of 3.3.

Also, the CPU fan gets loud at times depending on what program I open but
then it calms back down. It kinda sounds like dvd drive is spinning up but
there is no dvd in the drive.

Thanks in advance,
Wy

 

[Guest]

I have read of numerous people having problems with Zone Alarm on Vista.

 

[Newtechie]

Do you think a firewall would slow down the computer?

 

[Guest]

Sure. A firewall is just a piece of software and if not correctly written
could do anything.