old & new "issues"

Hi, everyone!

Been super-busy, then sick, then super-busy......

1st "old" issue:

I've been trying to figure out why my newest computer has been so slow at times. Sometimes start-up takes 3 to 4 minutes to get to the icons... and then I still have to wait. Many times I have to wait to get Word or Excel to finally start. Verry occasionally other programs start very slow.

It's been like this from day 1.

Gateway GM5076E, Intel "VIIV" Pentium D Processor 940 (dual-core @ 3.2 Ghz, 800 MHz FSB, 2x2 MB L2 cache), 500 GB SATA II HD, nVIDIA GeForce 6200, 2048 MB DDR2 Dual Channel Memory

Windows XP Media Center Edition

DVD-ROM, DVD R/RW, 9-in-1 Memory Card Reader, TV Tuner (not in use)

I am still using MS Office 97.......

The 2nd "old" issue:

On a very regular basis on all 3 of my XP machines (the other 2 are both "Home" editions, 1 is a laptop) my default printer will CHANGE from my laser (HP 1200) to the FAX printer part of my color printer (HP 3300).

I do have a home network, 2 computers are hard-wired, laptop & color printer are wireless LAN.

The "new" issue:

I suddenly can only download 1 file at a time from the internet. I used to be able to download 2 at a time, but recently was able to downlaod 4 at a time (but only once). I have no idea why that happened or why now I can only download 1 at a time.

Any help on these "issues "????? I am up to date on all updates.