can't open 'my computer', 'explorer', 'my docs'

[johndog]

On my desktop, many of the items like my computer, explorer, and Internet explorer won't open, but other programs do. Do I have a virus? Everything works fine in safe mode.

 

[bcastner]

A virus would be my absolutely first guess.

See:

. a disccusion:

http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/ToolsQuit.htmture/Electronic_Text_Archives/

. smah's online AV FAQ. Start with Trend Micro and Panda at the moment: faq760-3862

. Finish with a good malware cleanup procedure: faq608-4650

 

[linney]

http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/ToolsQuit.htm

Ask yourself what is is loading in Normal Mode that is not loading in Safe Mode

"Bcastner's" malware link will lead you to "Hi-jack This" which will produce a log of your Start items.

Other tools to use (if required) are -

310560 - How to Troubleshoot By Using the Msconfig Utility in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;310560&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

310353 - How to Perform a Clean Boot in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;310353&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

316434 - HOW TO: Perform Advanced Clean-Boot Troubleshooting in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;316434&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

 

[bcastner]

linney is correct, my first link did not resolve as I wished:

http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/ToolsQuit.htm

If someone every figures out how cut and paste buffers get regularly corrupted, I would appreciate knowing.

Bill