SRS - If your computer is slowing down after 5 years, and you're running Windows, and it hasn't been reinstalled - that's the problem.

Microsoft's management of the registry leaves a lot to be desired, and over time it clogs up with redundant and wrong entries. There are utilities which will clean the registry up, but they are not 100%. Re-installation usually gives a big improvement.

After 5 years, it will not be quick - you need to back up all your data files, including emails, music, pictures. You will also need to reinstall all applications not originally included, and download again all Microsoft's infuriating updates.

I used to reinstall WinXP every 2 years to keep my system working well. Even planning in advance, this took me most of a day. I now use Linux, and the whole process takes half an hour. I did 3 re-installations (on 2 machines) in an afternoon.

Phil