Windows XP start menu shutdown does not work

[Guest]

I bought a new computer recently, and it has been working fine until now.
Now, when I click -Start-, -Shutdown-, and either -Shutdown- or -Restart-,
all of the running programs will shut down, but XP continues to function
normally. I can run web browsers or start any other programs for that matter.
The only way I can make XP shutdown is to choose -Standby-, reactivate my
computer, and choose -Shutdown- from the welcome screen *before logging back
into Windows*.

I have also experienced some unusual activity at startup. While loading my
startup programs, my screen goes black for a couple seconds before coming
back and running normally. Also, I periodically receive error messages
concerning "generic host/WIN32" or something along those lines. I haven't
been able to get the exact wording yet, as it does not happen on a regular
basis.

I am running a Dell Inspiron 4700 with XP Home with SP2 and all the latest
updates. Any help on this matter would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

You should check for a backdoor Trojan using the generic host to compromise your system. Any good anti-virus app. should do it.
Download the free Anti-Virus tool (AVG) at this address: http://grisoft.com/us/us_dwnl_free.php

..