using a multi-port adapter to increase the number of USB ports - affects system functioning? Port priority? In advance, I send my thanks!

Hello. I've never "started a discussion" before. Ah well I've always had good luck with the communities so here goes. Today I plugged a Belkin multi-port adapter into my MacBook Pro running OS X Version 10.6.8 This enabled me to plug in my keyboard; mouse and printer. Yes after two years I wanted to be back to an independent full keyboard and mouse. BUT ALAS! Now the little spinning wheel keeps appeariing while I'm on the Internet and I learned through my "Help" app that I have "slow start-up, pausing at Initializing network or "Configuring network time" (sounds like some of the men I've dated).

Could it be the multi-port adapter? Should I use a different model? The abiltiy to have the printer; keyboard and mouse all connected at the same time is important to my work.

In advance, I send my thanks!

Jeannie-Marie