Security Update 2006-002 1.1 (#3): System slowdown

System slowdown Users continue to report slower system performance in various areas after applying Security Update 2006-002 1.1.

MacFixIt reader Brian Watson writes:

"I'm having prolonged startups and fast-user-switches (blue screen for at least a minute longer than before) after installing the latest security update."

Charles Maurer adds:

"This happened Friday after I ran the Software Update during the initial set-up of a MacBook Pro. I could not get it to work right so I wiped the disc, reinstalled all the software, and ran the Software Update again. Since then everything has worked (although the kernel did panic on Saturday and again on Sunday)."

Steve B writes:

"We are experiencing similar slowdowns after installing security update 1.0. We are using 12" powerbook G4 with 1Gb memory. Slowness seems to randomly occur. Once it slows down rebooting doesn't fix it. System accesses the hard drive constantly and can spend minutes doing simple tasks. Palm Desktop also decided to quick working. Don't know if this is related. We decided to a system reinstall but after reading the post today will not be installing the security update until we are sure it won't slow the system down."

Finally, Mike Barron adds:

"I am also experiencing some slowness after installing Security Update 2006-002 (tried v1.0, then v1.1). My main problem, though, is a lag between the time my Powerbook wakes up (or boots) and the time it connects to my Airport Express. Typically, after a wake or boot, the computer does not initially see my wireless network (it's hidden and uses WPA Personal encryption). It does see other open networks, and asks if I want to connect to them. If I dismiss the numerous prompts to join other networks and wait two or three minutes it will eventually discover the preferred network, my Airport Express, and connect as usual. Prior to the update everything worked flawlessly"

If you are experiencing similar issues, you may want to try clearing caches with a tool like Cocktail or Tiger Cache Cleaner. Failing a positive response, you may want to try re-installing the Security Update via the following procedure:

First, avoid performing any other operations (in Mac OS X or third-party applications) while the update process is occurring. In addition, before installing this security update, make sure all Apple-installed applications and utilities are in their original locations. Also, disconnect any FireWire/USB devices then re-connect the devices one by one after the update process is complete and the system has restarted.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

Previous coverage:

• Security Update 2006-002 1.1 (#2): Purpose of 1.1 updater -- fixes Safari bug
• Apple issues new version of Security Update 2006-002 (1.1)
• Security Update 2006-002 (#2): Menu bar items missing; Safari won't launch, fixes
• Apple releases Security Update 2006-002

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