[vicsvw]

I am running Windows 98SE and whenever I try to use ScanDisk or Defrag it Locks up the computer." Ctrl+Alt+ Del "it shows " Loadqm [not responding]" or "VSmon [not responding]" I have to hold in start button to shut the computer down. I can run Scandisk in Safe Mode I hav ran Registry Mechanic By PC Tools, Zone Alarm, AVG Free, Ad-Aware-6, SWpyBot, CWShredder Every thing else seems to run OK. Need some Advise as I need to use this Dell Laptop on the road & I can't afford for it to screw up. Vic.

[muckshifter]

ALWAYS run any 'defragger' in safe mode (same for scandisk) ... no problems? then all is fine.

The "error" is probably a program running in the background, like ZoneAlarm , accessing the HD at the wrong moment.

Really, if everything is fine in safe mode, then don't worry.