For some reason that I'd like to understand, my machine has speeded up.

What do I mean?
1. It just feels more responsive even as I type this comment. (Very subjective)
2. Feels responsive when navigating through windows explorer. Subjective, but easier to quantify though I haven't done it.

What have I done that might have caused it:
1. The usual: defragment, run antivirus, update antivirus.
2. The less usual: Installed Spybot which found a number of supposed spyware. Went through Zone Alarm disallowing some software from accessing internet that didn't seem essential (can't recall which).

What has happened outside my control?
1. Windows has improved?
2. There has been a law change in US; could this have influenced? Doubt it, but who knows.

I think running Spybot is most likely the reason. I should probably give the guy a contribution.

Any comments? TIA,

Alex