Windows XP Performance degradation as a function of time

[Guest]

I recently replaced my Dell Dimension hard drive, reloaded Windows XP and
downloaded updates. Performance is fine at fresh startup, but after
approximately 1 hour of use, or walking away for an hour or more,
applications do not respond, error messages referring to "insufficient
memory," no response to shutdown or log off. Recycling the computer with
power button clears the problems every time. Any suggestions or thoughts.

I routinely run Macfee Virus Scan, Cleanup, Webroot Spybot, and defrag in
attempt to keep performance optimal. Thanks,

 

[Earl Grey]

Open Task Manager and find out what processes are using up all that RAM.

My guess is malware.

Earl Grey

 

[Guest]

Webroot Spy Sweeper is a provides reputable spyware/malware protection.

During the "degraded" state, the computer will not respond to CTL-ALT-DEL to
observe task manager process utilization, nor anything else.

Any suggestions will be appreciated.

 

[Earl Grey]

Hello again:

Open Task Manager right after your computer starts, before the trouble
begins, and set it to display processes in decreasing order of memory
consumption. Set Task Manager to be 'always on top'.

Earl Grey