Why?

I have pretty fast computers. They can run just about any sort of program without a glitch. My internet is hella fast and efficient (with the new router, that is). I run WindowsXP home.

Then why, whenever I attempt to adjust the properties of the desktop (screensaver, background, etc.) does it take forever, and do things that I do not tell it to do?

Evidently there has been a great deal of neglect in developing this aspect of the computer platform. Someone tell me how to fix this glich, or better: if this doesn't happen with Linux get me a copy.