I have an hp laptop (512mem/1.7 processor).
When I startup, it takes about 2-3 minutes to get me to desktop, and about the same time to shut down.
When  working or surfing the internet, the speed is good enough. How much RAM do you have?

[glb]Flame[/glb]512Put it into hibernation instead of shutting down/booting up every time it saves lots of time.

Right click on properties, click on screensaver, click on the power, then hibernate and advanced...How many programs START when you login to Windows after turning on the computer?

[glb]Flame[/glb]Hello how are you? When you had newly install your windows then did it ask you to "Activate" windows?
If yes then I think you ignore this message.
And now the trial periode of your installed copy of windows has expired. Try to buy new copy of windows XP from the market and install it from scratch.
I also have the same problem with windows XP Home Edition.

Hope this will solve your problem. Take care of you and others and be happy.
Bye...
Dur-E-Wahabhi all, and thanks for your answers.

The xp-pro, that I have on my laptop, was pre-installed on the laptop when I got it.(with service pack-1).
After a while I downloaded service pack-2.
I don't remember asking me to activate anything, but my program is registered, If that's what you mean  "activate".
The MEMORY is 512mb, and the microprocessor 1.6.
I don't know how many programs are running, but when I go to the system configuration utility to fix the programs, I REALISE that I don't know what to do.
What I know for sure is that NORTON(antivirus,internet SECURITY & goback), are activated.
When I put it to hibernation, It switches "off" fast, but still takes time on starting-up.