If you can't complete defrags or other windows systems programs won't work then you need a reformatt. Comps over time load up with junk and it slows them more and more. You may think you are getting rid of the spy-adware stuff with all the scans, but you don't get rid of it all, some of it is buried very deep in the system. I can go for about a year before my comp just starts to really slow down and mess up and I can't take it anymore myself and reformatt my comp. You may think you are deleting/erasing stuff, but the comp leaves traces and just tucks it away and slows your comp down.
I must say though that Microsoft is finally getting it together with their security fixes and anti-spyware software. It's pretty good. I think it's better than the pay for software but it isn't perfect with out a reformatt to start from scratch.
My most recent reformatt was triggered when I used the microsoft spyware, but it still found stuff everyday. It was the same 2-3 programs it was finding. My comp was locking up alot also. So I reformatted.
After I reformatted I made sure I got all the available security patches and microsofts spy-ware loaded first. Don't visit any website after a reformatt with out going to microsoft loading up the security patchs first. Your system is truly clean so don't visit some website first to start your headaches all over again.
Since I reformatted a couple of months ago and loaded up the spyware from microsoft it has not found one thing out of all the daily scans. NOT ONE!!!!!! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif
If you want to save stuff, i.e. outlook, bookmarks, use the file transfer wizard under accessories then system tools and follow the steps.
Reformatting is scarey at first, but when you are done you'll think that it wasn't so bad and what a difference you'll see in your comp. The comp will prompt you in what to do once you put the boot disc in. Another good site to look at
http://www.bootdisk.com/
Windows is like VHS, Beta Max (linux or Apple systems here) is/was better, but everyone and most of the software is for windows. Look at all the security issues it has over and over again and the system tools needed to try and keep it running smoothly. Bill was just smarter than Steve in letting his software be used for Pc's in general rather Steve and his Apple only.