Removable media such as memory cards and removable disks can create boot delays, thereby increasing the amount of time it takes your computer to startup. Once you install XP, the problem apparently goes away. However, it is still good practice to remove CDs from the CD drives, memory cards, and so on from the computer if you are not using them.

Network cards also increase startup times. This is because Windows polls each network connection waiting up to 30 seconds for a response. If your computer has multiple network connections (or if you use a modem from time to time), consider disabling the network connections not being used. You can do so within the Network Connections applet. Right click each Network Connection not being used and click the Disable option. You should not see some improvement in startup times.

[tags]diana huggins,removable media,reduce boot delay,memory card,removable disk,network card,improve start time[/tags]