This is how you use Windows to manage your connection instead of the Intel Connection Utility:
http://www.intel.com/support/wireless/wlan/sb/cs-025789.htm
Dell will always have the relevant drivers for all their products. If you're missing a driver, the first stop should always be
http://support.dell.com/ .It's just a case of looking to find a specific driver.
As for keeping it fast, nothing beats a bit of general maintenance. In terms of hardware, try to clean out the dust every two weeks or so. If it's in a dusty room, you might want to do it every week.
In terms of software, there are a couple of good practices that you could adopt.
1. Don't install too many unnecessary applications.
2. Similarly, only install one type of program. So don't have 3 anti-viral programs, or 5 media players. Just stick with one to do each job.
3. Choose the right applications from the start. For example, use Google Chrome instead of IE.
4. Manage what applications start when your computer boots. Go to "run" and type "msconfig". Head over to the "Startup" tab and untick any applications which you
don't want to start when your computer does. Then click apply.
5. Regularly clean out your Recycle Bin
and your Download folder.
6. Optimise the running of XP using this :
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/308417
7. Don't bother using Registry Cleaners. You're risking permanent damage to your registry by using these.
Other than that, it comes down to common sense really. One tip I can give you is to install a bit more RAM. If you're doing anything particularly intensive, having at least 2GB of RAM will certainly help.
Anyway, I'm glad it's working again. Post back if you get any problems again.
