Originally Posted by gtiseb
As mentioned, check for spyware (hp's are notorious for having some already built in). Use the following inthe is order : adaware, spybot (1.3 or up), CWShredder. All can be found using google.
As well, MS has a free tool called Bootvis that will scan your boot up and make recommendations.
Final note, Defrag, scandisk, update all your drivers. Also, if you're on DSL or some other type of authenticating Internet access, make sure nothing starts up that needs to be on the net first, that will make your pc search for a connection before it finishes it's boot. I would also check for eroneous drive mappings.
Give us a bit more details and we can probably figure it out better.