slow system

[ssc1478]

On Sun, 27 Jul 2008 20:41:03 -0500
David Clark <clarksd5 at cox.net> wrote:

> I'm a Linux newbie, so i need your help +patience.
> 
> i run Ubuntu on a new Dell Laptop with 2gb of memory and its started
> running slow as hell. Where should I start looking for reasons?

I use htop.  Allows sorting by cpu, memory, etc.  You need to install
it, and then a menu item under Application -> System Tools is created.
Or you could use top in a terminal window.

Phil