A few questions:
3. Install Norton Antivirus, reboot, update NAV, reboot, run update again, reboot, run update for third time.
Why all the reboots and updates?? I've never used anti-virus software with my PC, and never had a virus, so I don't understand.
4. Run Windows Update... first run the updater update... reboot, then run update again get service pack 2, reboot, run it again to get WM9, reboot, run it again to update one more of the apps (i forget which one), reboot, run it again to update remaining drivers and apps, reboot.
Why updates before SP2? If your version was SP2 to begin with, wouldn't need to install it. I've never had to reboot and update as many times as you mention. If the Laptop came with Win SP1, it must be very old and it's commendable that it's still running after so long.
And now... Finally... we are ready to start installing actual software, oh yeah... I forgot... after I find and install the drivers for the ethernet, modem, audio, etc.
You would have to install software on OSX also unless you only use the package stuff, which I doubt. Why did you have to install all the drivers? I've never had to do that with any PC I've ever owned.
I would estimate that no more than 1-1 1/2 hours to reinstall everything for any time I've done it on a PC. Maybe you're just slow at it and confused since you only use Macs.
And for some reason this stupid POS hangs every time it reboots... And I can't just hold down the power button... I have to unplug it and pull the battery.
That must be some kind of serious hardware issue, not Windows.
Firefox Opens "This program has suddenly quit, would you like to send an error report...."
Funny, I had to force quit Firefox 2 times today on my MBP before my fan rev'd out of control and blew the whole thing up!
Oh well, that install should last two or three weeks before it fills up with junk and has to be reformatted again.
If that's true, your friend really needs to learn how to use a computer. I had my PC for 4 years, never had a virus, never had a hardware problem.
And by the way, why are you doing all this for your "friend"?? Make them do it so they learn something.
I don't know how much more of this I can take before this thing becomes a target down at the rifle range. (That's how we fix PCs in Texas)
I don't think your "friend" you like you shooting your, er, I mean "his" PC