New ColdThunder

A few things I do when building out a new system (XP SP2) Home and Pro, which I'm sure for the most part others do the same.

After the install:
1. Remove MSN Explorer 
          in Add/Remove programs under Add/Remove 
          Windows Components (if you don't use it)

2. I also remove the internet game zone in games.

3. In System Properties "Advanced tab"; under "Performance" 
         "Setting" / "Visual Effects". 
          Set it to "Adjust for best performance" then select 
         "Use common tasks in folders" click and Apply. This will take off all the defaults that can slow the system down.

4. This is up to you, but I turn off "Automatic Updates" because I check for updates.
          And Microsoft for the most part posts the new update (if any) the second Tuesday of every month.
          We call it MS Tuesday!

5. "Hibernate" is turned off if I'm building out a Desktop PC, no reason to leave that on if this is not a laptop. 
         This eats up hard drive space and is a resource running.

6. "Services" There are a few I turn off on this PC.
      a. "Messenger" I don't use or receive net send messages on this PC.
      b. "Fast User Switching Compatibility" No need for this service if you're the only one using the PC
      c. "Security Center" I just don't use this feature of XP SP2
      d. "Windows Firewall/Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)" I don't use the windows firewall or internet connection sharing.
      e. "Wireless Zero Configuration" This PC is not setup for wireless so no need in this running.