How do I speed up desktop performace?
By default, windows will turn on all the fancy graphical functionality such as fades, transparency, shadows, previews, thumbnails and other visual effects. To change it, open Control Panel, System and Maintenance, System, Advanced system settings then click on Advanced tab, and select Performance settings and select it to Adjust for best performance to turn off the visual effects. This will also turn off the Aqua interface (see Enable transparent glass effect).