Slow Computers after latest XP Updates

Has anyone else noticed or have comments ?
With the release of Vista it seems that a raft of XP updates were introduced on the Microsoft site.
It appears to me anecdotaly that system performance slows to a crawl.
The browsers seem to exceptionally slow on loadup.
With a system restore to pre update stage ( something 2) it now seems like lightening in comparison to the same system with the updates.
As well Intenet Explorer (IE) 7 is installed in the list - leading to conflicts with programs and services that will not function well with IE7.
It is especially frustrating for beginner level computer users who by default have automatic updates install on and are not aware that any updates have been applied to their computers.
Anyone else noted this or am I pychotic iin this cold weather ?