Applets in Windows' start-up list can slow down startup. The Windows 98 System Configuration Utility's Startup tab (select Start Run and enter msconfig) lets you disable such applets so you can see what's necessary. Uncheck an applet's box, and it won't load the next time you start Windows. Then see if launch time improves.
In the System Configuration Utility's General tab (select Start Run and enter msconfig), click Advanced and check Disable fast shutdown. Reboot, and try to shut down the system. If your PC lacks the Disable option, go to Microsoft's Knowledge Base (search. support. microsoft.com/kb/ c.asp) and find article Q202633 (Windows 98) or article Q238096 (Windows 98 SE).
Here are several start-up symptoms with various troubleshooting techniques.
Screen is Blank Secure all of your external cables and power cords, and reset your surge protector. Next, open your PC's cover and remove and reseat each add-in card. Also secure the power connectors and data cables for your drives.
PC Hangs Before Windows Loads Watch for on-screen messages as your PC boots; you may identify a troublesome component. To stop the screen from scrolling past a message, press the Pause key.
PC Hangs While Windows Is Running Open Windows 98's System Configuration Utility (hit Start-Run, enter MSConfig, click OK, and click the Startup tab). Make sure Windows isn't starting any processes twice. After you're done, reboot your PC.
To look for device conflicts, right-click My Computer, choose Properties, and select the Device Manager tab. Double-click components marked with a yellow circle and exclamation point. If a device is misbehaving, click its Resources tab and look in the Conflicting Device list. Remove or disable one device in any pair of conflicting devices (select Disable in this hardware profile on that device's General tab). Then restart your computer.
To locate a misbehaving device, restart Windows and hold down the Control key. On the Startup Menu, select Step-by-Step confirmation. As Windows initializes each device, an error message or Windows lockup will indicate the culprit.
First, check all modem connections. If you have other devices connected to a modem's line, try removing them.
To check your modem's line, attach a phone to it and listen as you dial. If you hear a lot of static, report it to your phone service provider, who should correct it.
To check your modem, select Start Settings. Control Panel and open Moderns. On the Diagnostics tab, select the port your modem is attached to and click More Info.