Thank you for the info. I have just downloaded and installed the software. I will give it a go with the next post.
I normally use a freeware program Notepad ++. I draft in Word then cut and paste into Notepad ++.
I upgraded WinXP about two weeks ago using CTUpdate:
VulnerabilityAssessment.co.ukThe program is a script which downloads the all the latest update files directly from the Microsoft servers. I prefer it rather than using MS auto update.
Since the update I have observed XP behaves differently. Microsoft may have done a Vista.
Notepad ++ is behaving differently. I have a Dvico FusionHDTV which consumes 40-50% resources when it should consume about 20-30%. Using Control/alt/delete Task Manager sometimes does not terminate resident programs. Upon XP shut down some resident programs hang; they have to be manually terminated.
Overall XP is more stable and secure; so I do not want to reload XP from scratch. Too painful and time consuming.
My understanding is that different updaters ie Autopatcher, Ryan'sVM may use different versions of the MS update files.
CTUpdate is free; sanctioned by MS and supported by a reputable commercial company. If anyone is using XP it is the best update path. The first download may be up to 700mb; the site explains why.