help with folder creation

i have vista basic ,brand new machine. was able to r click desktop and
create new folders but now , no matter what i do i r click and get the
message empty.
also my toolbar is locked. i uncheck the lock toolbar. and it doesnt
i wnet to cp and taskbar and removed the check mark there from toolbar ande
apply
but if i go back its still checked. please help esp. need new folders.
thanks