First, you need to upgrade your RAM. 256 is way deficient for XP. Optimal is
at 1GB or more. You will notice a TREMENDOUS difference in speed, once you
do that.
You can delete your cookies through your browser. How you do it depends on
what browser you use:
In Internet Explorer, go through Tools -> Internet Options, and you will see
where you can delete your cookies.
In Firefox, go to Tools -> Options, and select the "Privacy" tab at the top of
the popup box. When in there, you will see a "Clear Now" radio button toward
the bottom.
To eliminate startup programs, go to your Start button at the extreme lower
left of your desktop screen, then select "Run". Type "msconfig" in the box,
and you will see a System Configuration popup. Select the "Startup" tab.
In there, you will see the programs to uncheck to make them stop running.
But BE CAREFUL . . . it is very easy to stop something that SHOULD be
running. If you don't know what you are doing, then the best thing to do in
there is nothing.
Hope that helps.
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