Lady D,

You didn't mention what type of computer it is that you have.

Also, you mention having to restart (as the same as re-boot) If you are using hibernating as an option....this could also be a major issue...the hybernate proccess (especially in XP) just doesn't work as it should and has always caused issues....

The computer locking up as you describe sounds more hardware than software problem....As squirelandmoose said. Make sure all your drivers are upto date.

You might install this application from Microsoft. "UPH Clean" forces memory to release itself if you do have a memory issue. It needs to be installed on both operating systems. It should be installed in Vista already...check the add/remove program!