I just returned from a client who, among other concerns, asked why her computer had suddenly gotten slower. There are many reasons for slow computers, but this one proved to be something different.
Check the Usual Sources of Slowness
This was a Windows XP computer so I first took a look at the processor and amount of memory. That could be the problem, but it was slow even when doing something simple like opening her default browser, Firefox. Although I suggested that a new computer would definitely have its advantages, I didn’t still didn’t think that was necessary.
Reopening Hotmail showed me the problem
After fixing a couple of unrelated problems, I opened Hotmail (in Firefox) again. This time, I got a screen telling me that my computer was at risk because Internet Explorer was downlevel – even though I hadn’t opened Internet Explorer.
I clicked on the link to download Internet Explorer 8, the latest version for Windows XP, and installed it. After its required reboot, the performance problems were gone.
What’s the Moral?
Even if you don’t use Internet Explorer, check to make sure you have the latest version installed. Just having the older versions on your system can lead you to vulnerabilities.
What Version Should You Have?
For Windows XP, you should have Internet Explorer Version 8. Windows Vista and Windows 7 should both be upgraded to Internet Explorer 9.
Find out What You Have Installed
Clicking on the is button or the word Help, then selecting About Internet Explorer will tell you the Version you are running.
Keep Yourself Safe Online
Running outdated software can cause security problems when you go online. And with today’s high speed connections, you don’t even have to have a browser open to have a problem. If you don’t know what to do, ask for assistance.
© 2012 by Sherry Goncharsky
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