[GingisK]

I think the OS is waiting for something it can’t reach. The timeout interval is too long, and it probably tries multiple times.

[Red Badger]

Ever tried Glary Utilities?

https://www.glarysoft.com/downloads/

It’s free version will analyze your system and your hard drive, especially, and will make suggestions for cleaning out unused stuff that slows the system down.

I have used it for well over 20 years.

I also use CCleaner:

https://www.ccleaner.com/

Another free version that works well, and has for 20+ YEARS.

There are also what they call ‘Professional’ versions that cost a little, and do more stuff, but I have never needed them. But if I ever go into business fixing peoples computers I would!................