Computer freezes on the web and on boot

[leechwife]

I have a huge problem: now when I surf the web, my computer freezes and I have to turn the PC off by the power button. It also freezes sometimes on bootup. I have tried running spyware removal tools, antivirus, defragging, scandisk, and updating graphic drivers, but NOTHING has helped. I am really not sure if it is a hardware problem or what.

Here are my specs:

P4 1.8ghz
Intel 845E motherboard
512 megs RAM
ATI AIW 9000
40 gig HDD
WinXP Pro

Can anyone point me in the right direction? I ordered a new stick of RAM from Newegg to get a headstart, if it's a hardware problem

Thanks in advance!

 

[Balt]

Well, assuming that it isn't some kind of virus or spyware problem...

Are you using a NIC or an onboard ethernet controller? Either way, I'd try un-installing and re-installing the drivers. If that doesn't work maybe pick up a cheap $5-10 NIC and try using that.

 

[leechwife]

Actually I just replaced an Ethernet card last month after it died. I bought a cheapo one from CompUSA. I have an extra one though, so I'll switch them out and see if that helps.

 

[mechBgon]

Questions:

1. Did the antivirus scans detect viruses? If so, what kind?
2. How about the antispyware scans, did they detect anything more serious than run-of-the-mill DSO exploits and advertising cookies?
3. What brand and model of power supply are you using?
4. Is your Windows installation fully up-to-date on its patches (meaning, it has Service Pack 2 and subsequent Critical Updates)?
5. What kind of antivirus software do you have and is it up-to-date?
6. Are you using a software firewall (such as Windows Firewall or ZoneAlarm) and/or a hardware firewall (such as a cable/DSL router like a Linksys BEFSR41 or similar)?
7. If possible, could you post a complete list of the system's specs, including the exact model of the motherboard

 

[leechwife]

It's fixed! I put in my new D-Link Ethernet card and all is well. Thank you guys a whole bunch.

And by the way, no virus was found, nor was any spyware. I use AVG (and the definitions were up-to-date when I ran the AV). I use Sygate along with a Linksys BEFSR41 router. I'm too scared to install SP2, but I have been applying critical updates. Not sure on the brand and model of the power supply, but I'm pretty sure it's probably a Dell part. I need a new one, because the one I have is only 250 watts. ;/

Thanks again guys. I'll let you know if it starts acting up again.

 

[Balt]

Originally posted by: leechwife
It's fixed! I put in my new D-Link Ethernet card and all is well. Thank you guys a whole bunch.

And by the way, no virus was found, nor was any spyware. I use AVG (and the definitions were up-to-date when I ran the AV). I use Sygate along with a Linksys BEFSR41 router. I'm too scared to install SP2, but I have been applying critical updates. Not sure on the brand and model of the power supply, but I'm pretty sure it's probably a Dell part. I need a new one, because the one I have is only 250 watts. ;/

Thanks again guys. I'll let you know if it starts acting up again.

:beer:

I hope that's all it was.