Laptop issue.

[Carbonox]

Recently, I've started running into massive problems with the laptop. It's already about 5 years old but has worked more or less flawlessly until this week.

Basically, whenever I connect to the internet, the computer just goes, well, nuts, and either slows down to a snail's pace or freezes completely. It works just fine when it's not connected, but now it's only really good for playing Solitaire. I'd really love to have it back to working condition since I often skype with my racing buddies while playing GT5, but that's rendered pretty much impossible with the lack of bearable connection.

Does anyone know what I'm exactly supposed to do here? Would it be a better idea to invest in a new laptop or can I still get at least a few more years out of this old one by somehow solving the problem without having to take it to a repairman?

 

[Tornado]

Try uninstalling and reinstalling your network card drivers. They are probably available on the manufacturer's website.

 

[Carbonox]

Seems to be working now, looks like it actually just needed a few days of rest.

 

[Sureboss]

Hmm, I wouldn't count on that.

Start > Run > type 'Event Viewer'. Anything in the various logs that matches the time stamps of the freeze?

Do you connect via cable or wifi?

 

[Carbonox]

It's a wireless connection.

 

[Sureboss]

Okay, so have you reinstalled your network drivers?

Have you checked the event viewer?

 

[Pharohbender]

better run a hdd test just incase....5yrs its probably on its way to hdd heaven
use hdtune free and run a check for bad sectors