I was having problems with some downloads on my Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit system. The PC was taking longer to start-up & shut down also. I found out through trail & error that my problem was caused by a Windows Update- Microsoft.net Framework 4. I really don`t know what it is for, but once I deleted it the problems were solved.
So if you are having these problems you might want to conceder removing the Microsoft.net Freamwork 4.
I set my windows update so I can see the updates first before they are downloaded. That way Windows won`t sneek in an unwanted update.
I just thought i`d let everyone know what the deal was with my PC.