There are times when GMail does not perform adequately. There are many possible reasons. This list is not exhaustive nor is it guaranteed to resolve any particular issue.

• Google is voracious and bites off more than it can chew at times. Its servers are sometimes overwhelmed. Wait a couple of hours and see if it gets better.
• The Internet is expected to carry more traffic with each technological innovation. For example, HD (High Definition) videos are now showing up regularly and some people will download more than they can watch. This nornally occurs during peak hours (7PM to 11PM weekdays, Sunday afternoons). Dialup users should check their connection speed. It should be faster than 40k.
• Web sites including Gmail depend on features found in recent browsers. Windows XP and Vista users will find new browsers at filehippo.com. Windows 9x users should save their pennies for a new machine. I use Firefox but recently tried Opera and was favorably impressed. Downloading can take a long time at dialup speeds. Ask your ISP to send you large downloads by USPS mail. Windows updates are not generally redistributable. We will set up one Saturday each month where dialup users can bring in their machine  Expect to borrow monitor, mouse and keyboard and minimal assistance in getting connected.
• Gmail is an AJAX operation and as such uses the Java virtual machine on your computer. The latest JRE (Java Runtime Environment) can also be downloaded from filehippo.com.
• Machines pick up trash which saps their strength. Remove the the data trash with CCleaner and uninstall the useless programs. Scan your system with an AV (anti virus) scanner (Antivir and Avast are common choices, avoid Norton and McAfee). Remove excess tool bars and "helper" applications
• Gmail has new and old versions of "standard" and "basic" interfaces. The standard version uses Ajax, the basic version HTML. Ajax is harder on your machine; HTML is harder on your connection. Some people prefer the old version..
• Turn off Settings, Web Clips.That will dispose of the sometimes interesting but generally useless web link above your messages..
• Turn off Settings, General, Snippets. Snippets are a piece of the  beginning of a message. You will still get the subject line.
• Turn off Settings, General, Personal Level Indicators. Indicators tell if the message was addressed directly to you or your email address was in CC or BCC.
• Turn off Chat. Look for the option near the bottom every Gmail page. This option is only available in the "newer" version. Google
• Collapse Labels - turn the arrow sideways. Reduces the content that is updated on page refreshes.

LSNet will send CDs of essential programs by USPS to current dialup customers. You can also pick one up at the Galax office. Use the "Contact" at http://ls.net link to request assistance. Free telephone support is limited. Fee based service applies to all matters requiring more than 5 minutes.