How I fixed my latency issues. Please add missing info to improve thread.

I’m a Sonar X1 newb, and have been battling latency issues as I got my home studio up and running.  There is good information on this forum regarding latency problems, but it is spread out over quite a few threads.  Because of that, while everything is fresh in my head I wanted to put down what I did to successfully fix my buzzes, pops, an uninvited delay effect, and other symptoms of latency.  I’m hoping that experienced forum members will add to my list, so we can put together a one-stop thread to which newbs such as me can be referred.  Btw, I am running Sonar X1 Expanded via an unadulterated Dell 620s (i5-2320 processor (3.0GHz with 6MB Cache), Windows7-64 bit, M-Audio Fast Track Pro, 6GB RAM.)
 
Here is what I did:
1)      I turned off my wireless internet connection.
2)      I adjusted my ASIO buffer to 512.  (Edit, Preferences, Audio, Driver Settings, ASIO button.)
3)      I adjusted my hard disk buffer by increasing the playback AND recording I/O buffer sizes to 512 each.  (Edit, Preferences, Audio, Sync and Caching.)
4)      I deleted all the Dell crap software that was preinstalled.
5)      I defragged my hard disk with Smart Defrag 2 (freeware) at the highest setting.
6)      I made sure no programs were running that were not necessary.
 
What I can do additionally if latency-related troubles return as I put more strain on the computer:
1)      Change my power settings to maximize performance.
2)      Turn off Norton.
3)      Adjust my two sets of buffers at x2 increments.
 
It would be great if some forum veterans added to this basic list and corrected any mistakes I may have made above.
 
Thanks!

David

Hahaha!  I have induced shock elsewhere with my loyalty to Norton.  I tell you, though, every time I visit Korea on business, Norton tells me it stops hack attacks.  I'll keep it running until the latency problems kick in again.

Considering price point as important, what are some recommendations for a more ideal interface?  

Thanks for your input beyond my basic list,

David

way off topic, but Rico, clicked your link -awesome stuff! Maybe you guys can play at the Britt Festival in Southern Oregon?

That's all pretty sound advice.

Only thing I'd add to that is that the I/O buffers and ASIO buffer setttings are not a "one size fits all" and will vary from set up to set up. But they are definitely the place to start adjusting when starting the "latency vs dropouts" compromise.

I used the tools in my sig to hone in on processes and drivers that were an issue. Since then, smooth sailing.