Low System Resources

[hersshey]

For some reason my system resources get very low when i open yahoo messenger and my browser (Avant). Right now i have avant and yahoo and my resources are 36%, i think that's low but i'm not sure. Then when i open Buddy Spy sometimes my pc just freezes up. When i use IE they get a little better but not much.
This is what i have running on startup:
System Tray
F-STOPW.EXE(antivirus)
FRISK FP Scheduler
Messenger Plus3
GoBack Tray Icon
Palstart
I'm using windows 98, can anyone tell me what i can do to keep my resources up?
I have 191.0 MB of Ram
and the only programs that start automatically are the ones i have listed.

[Tigerblade]

Well... how much memory do you have on your computer? If you have very little memory to start with, there's not a whole lot you'd be able to do. You can try to cut down the number of services you have running (how many are set to automatic...)

Although... not having Win98 anymore, I don't remember if you can do that in 98. I'll leave that to someone who's more knowledgeable on that.

[Spike]

Yeah, here's your problem: All these programs are designed and optimized for Windows 2000 and up. If you're still using Windows 98 and 256MB of RAM or less, then it's definately time to upgrade. That's definately your problem, no questions asked.

[GoldenKnight8987]

I'd suggest a faster processor (preferably something fairly recent), 512 MB or more memory for optimal performance, and Windows XP Professional. I have both Avant and YahooMessenger and on my PC they run fine. Like Spike said, the upgrade is a definate must to get rid of the problem. You'd really be shocked but prices of Desktops have REALLY gone down over the years and they are pretty cheap. So it's something to consider.

[hersshey]

Thanks for the reply's..guess i'll just have to break down and buy a new one. although my mom used to own this pc and i know she has had more memory put in it but i have no clue on how much or where to even look for it. All i know is it says i have 9.49GB and Used Space:4.67 Free Space:4.81 so it shows only half of the little circle used..lol

[Tigerblade]

hersshey - that's not memory you're seeing. that's your hard drive space - the amount of physical disc space that is used to hold your files and information. the memory on your computer is what the computer runs from, the temporary storage space for programs and your operating system.

[GoldenKnight8987]

to find about of memory on Windows 98....... right click My Computer..... hit properties and on the dialog that pops up there's a little area on the bottom of the window where you see Computer..... look anywhere for MB and RAM and that is where your memory is displayed. :-)