Why does Google Chrome freeze?

I have installed Google Chrome on several PCs. I've seen the same fault on each of them. While browsing the PC seems to lock up. (I haven't seen a PC just freeze for years. Reminded me of Windows 95.)

I am using Windows XP Home and Chrome on 3 PCs. Two have wireless connections and one is wired. I've used Firefox and IE8 with no problems, but would prefer to use Chrome.