When I boot my computer, I get the windows log-in screen and then after entering my password, it goes to the blue Dell screensaver with no icons or start menu.

In the past I have been able to resolve most issues by using a system restore, but there are no valid dates on that screen to restore and when I create a date it does not affect the restore.

I have tried to reboot the system with my "Operating System - Reinstallation cd for Microsoft windows XP home edition but about halfway through I get messages that it could not find certain links and would I like to continue. I have tried to say no and exit the cd and I have tried to say continue without loading these programs.

I have asked a number of "local experts" re: this dilemma and none of them have experienced this problem and the Geek squad states they can fix the problem for $119. I cannot afford this expense and would appreciate any, and all, suggestions you can give me.

Thank you.

Chuch, don't feel downhearted. It's a common windows problem. Most probably another worm or virus attack. But can't understand why the "local experts" want to charge as high as "$119.

Another clarification, can you access yours apps in your windows? And only task menu and icons gone? Or you can't even click or access Task Manager? You can however run apps using Task Manager, CTRL+ALT+DEL, (File>Run(new task). If that is accessible, download spybot http://www.tucows.com/preview/310138 into a removable drive, and install and run it from TASK MANAGER. I do think it's a virus/worm bugging your windows.

Your description is rather general but it looks like a corrupted windows installation. Can you access via Safe Mode (Press F8 before windows load)? If you can, it might be good to run HijakThis, and paste the log file here. Something might be running in the background.

Alright, you can either download from another PC and save it on your removable drive (if you have one). If not from task manager, run IE Explorer or Firefox, locate where you install it by browsing.

Then download Spybot http://public.planetmirror.com/pub/s...spybotsd15.exe <--- a better link. Save to anywhere except your Desktop. And again run from Task Manager to install and scan your pc. See it there are traces of spywares.

Keeman,

Thanks for the quick response. I can get to task manager and browse, but how do I get the tucows program to download? When I click on your link while working on another computer it says site not available.

Should I type the link into the browse area of my task manager to download.

Excuse the confusion, but I am really a novice at performing certain task.

Keep in mind that when I go to Windows XP either in safe mode or normal boot, it gives me blank screens so I have no where to go except Cntrl-Alt-Del to get to task manager, after that I am in the dark.

Again thanks for your help and patience in assisting me.

Ciao