XP Performance Problem

Tech-Archive recommends: Fix windows errors by optimizing your registry

Greetings All-

I am having serious XP SP2 performance issues for some unknown reason. I
have always had my firewall running, and I run Mcafee virus scan daily. I
have the most current updates and multiple scans have found no viruses. My
system works fine inSafe mode. I have no adware or spyware problems (I also
keep SpySweeper up to date). My registry has been cleaned and has no problems.

My problems go back 1 week. I tried multiple system restores, which failed
to resolve the problem.

My problems are as follows:

1) My Computer icon responds very slowly. When clicked on, the flashlight
goes for 10-15 seconds before returning results

2) Programs hang/ respond slowly. When trying to End Task, they sometimes
take 1-2 minutes to cancel closed.

3) PC is very slow to install or remove programs.

4) Task bar intermittently disappears for 1-2 minutes (does this very
infrequently though)

5) Some applications load very slowly and/or wont function at all.

I have noticed that my system has the SVCHOST.EXE file running in several
instances (5 or so) and they have various file sizes.

I don't want to reformat my whole system and reinstall windows unless i
absolutely have to. Since safe mode is runnign fine, I am getting along for
now.

Can anyone recommend a diagnostic program for something like this?

I am in a country that doesnt speak native English, and I'm afraid to drop
my Toshiba laptop off for resolution.

Thanks
.