this tip is for those non technical and new to computers, it is for checking start up and programs running in the back ground that are not shown,this is a very simple but approx way of timing with added fun,first go to LINK DELETED and down load their quick snooker game,when it is down loaded and you are competant at starting it from your desk top you can start the tests.
do not switch on your internet connection this is a stand alone test, with your watch or clock second finger where you want it, start the computer, from start to actual game on the screen up and running should be 2.5/3 minutes tops, any slower you will have to start looking at whats starting up automatically any faster is a bonus and good husbandry.now you have you speed time so now check what else is running,play the game and if the struck cue ball moves freely then things are'nt to bad if the ball stutters then something is wrong the bigger the stutter the worse the problem but at least now you no something is going on so look in to it and has a bonus it is a great free little game to play whilst downloading or updating cheers finbar