Windows XP Index Slowdown on XP - How to fix?

[Hannahsw]

I have windows xp on an Averatec 3700 series (love it) with AMD Mobile Sempron. I'm told that the sudden slowdown in finding files on my computer has to do with it's having reached the point where it simply goes downhill. It takes a ridiculous amount of time to locate a file and is seriously interfering with my work. I will be sure to purchase a dual processor next time but meanwhile, is there something I can do? Defragging did not improve the situation. I can - if need be - take everything off the C drive except for the programs and outlook but I'm also told that will not help, that I need to do something with the indexing of XP. Thanks for any help.

This also appearred to happen after I downloaded and installed McAfee Total Security, but may have been before. Speaking of that, how do I stop it automatically "checking" all the emails already in in my inbox? There is no obvious setting other than turning the whole checking system off, which would defeat the purpose.

 

[SlimJim]

Which search method are you using?

If it is the standard Search from the Start Menu that it does not by default use Windows Indexing Service (assuming it is running). Microsoft are a bit coy about how to use the indexing service to speed up searching but it is possible, however, I think the desktop search engines are generally better.

If you are already using a desktop search engine like Windows Desktop(Live?) Search, Google, Yahoo, X1, Copernic etc then after the initial indexing searching should always be quick. You should take the time to fine-tune the indexing engine, in particular making sure it is only indexing the locations that you want it to index.

 

[muckshifter]

This also appeared to happen after I downloaded and installed McAfee Total Security

Well, I for one, and I ain't alone, would point the second index finger, of any hand, straight up. Recommend an uninstall and a refund for that virus ... err, anti-virus program.


On a second note, it is actually recommended, for XP, to turn off Indexing of the hard drive. Not many people actually know how to use XP indexing service proficiently enough for it to be any benefit to them, because the computer has to index all files, it will slow down normal file commands like open, close, etc.

To turn off indexing:

1. Open up "My Computer."
2. Right-click on your hard drive (usually "C:") and choose "Properties."
3. Uncheck the box at the bottom that reads "Allow Indexing Service to..."
4. Click OK, and files will be removed from memory. This removal will take a few minutes to complete.

To disable the indexing service:

1. In the "Start" menu, choose "Run."
2. Type "services.msc" and press Enter.
3. Scroll-down to "Indexing Service" and double-click it.
4. If the service status is "Running", then stop it by pressing the "Stop" button.
5. To make sure this service doesn't run again, under "Startup Type:", choose "Disabled."

Windows search will still work if you perform these steps, but it will work more slowly than if indexing was enabled.

Vista's indexing, on the other hand, actually does work as intended.