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[This will need a fair bit of contribution before it can be considered complete... here is a start.]
It is recommended that before you begin to trouble shoot software issues that you check for any hardware error that might be the root cause of a problem.
1. Start by testing the computer's memory for errors. In Vista and above a memory check is built into the opperating system and can be started by xxxxxxxx. On Windows XP you will need a separate program, Memtest is a fairly universally used tool and is a reliable detector of memory errors. Memtest can be found here... http://www.memtest.org/
If this process indicates a memory error, remover all the memory sticks and lightly rub the contacts with a pencil rubber. Replace the modules and run the test again. If the RAM continues to fail enter the BIOS and if possible set the RAM speed to a lower value; test again. If a module continues to fail it will need to be replaced.
Memory contact errors occur most frequently with new RAM due to residue from the manufacturing process and RAM that has suffered oxidisation of the contacts or has experiences mild electrolysis cause by a difference in the metals of RAM sticks and slots.
You can apply the same rubber technique to any cards in expansion slots. Use a small brush to remove any rubber left on the contacts. If there is dust in the box you should carefully vacum the inside of the case with a plastic or rubber nozzle.
2. Run a full disk check on all drives
3. Delete temp files. Do NOT rely on Windows cleaner to do this. In XP they are located in C:\Documents and Settings\[my user name]\Local Settings\Temp
4. Scan the computer for viruses. If you do not have a virus detection program try the free tool from Avira.
A common error that can cause problems in Windows is DLLs that are not registered.
Workspace corruption is a common error. This is solved by holding F8 down during application start-up.