Windows XP - Very long delay on startup

[the182guy]

I have Windows XP Home SP2 and Vista Business SP1 on a dual boot laptop.

When I boot to XP, it loads the desktop but only the bare minium programs (network, volume control), at this point I can see the desktop icons and everything, it then pauses for 5-10+ minutes after which, it proceeds to load the startup programs.

If I try to launch any program whilst it is in the paused state, it instant crashes and I have to force power off by holding the power button.

If I startup with the network cable unplugged or router off, XP boots up very quickly as normal (no pause). However, when I plug the network cable in and run anything (or even right click the system tray) it instant crashes.

Vista boots up fine with no problems.

I have only the basic apps launching on startup and have run Spybot + AVG regularly with no threats, I also have the Zone Alarm Pro firewall running.

Any ideas? I would appreciate some help greatly since I've spent nearly $3,000 on this laptop.

Cheers
Chris

 

[nsparedes]

I have Windows XP Home SP2 and Vista Business SP1 on a dual boot laptop.

When I boot to XP, it loads the desktop but only the bare minium programs (network, volume control), at this point I can see the desktop icons and everything, it then pauses for 5-10+ minutes after which, it proceeds to load the startup programs.

If I try to launch any program whilst it is in the paused state, it instant crashes and I have to force power off by holding the power button.

If I startup with the network cable unplugged or router off, XP boots up very quickly as normal (no pause). However, when I plug the network cable in and run anything (or even right click the system tray) it instant crashes.

Vista boots up fine with no problems.

I have only the basic apps launching on startup and have run Spybot + AVG regularly with no threats, I also have the Zone Alarm Pro firewall running.

Any ideas? I would appreciate some help greatly since I've spent nearly $3,000 on this laptop.

Cheers
Chris

Try to reinstall the network driver for xp. The network driver, probably corrupted or damaged for some reason. Or try to do system restore to a previous good state, just make sure your cable in not attached to your network when you do this and then re plugged your cable back.