xp at start up won't work

[gaz]

Hi again I need some help!!!
When I start up my comp some programs on the desk top
wont work sometimes for quite a while, other times they
come up but won't work and a message board reads program
not responding.Also some times it helps if I restart my
comp.
Gary.

 

[Chris H.]

Have you recently added any new software? I've seen this symptom also when
the system has taken in a whole lot of trojan programs (the "phone home"
variety). I'd make sure you scan your system thoroughly with your
anti-virus program (make sure you've got the latest definitions installed)
and you may also want to download the free Ad-Aware program from
http://www.lavasoftusa.com/ and run it. You may be amazed what you find.
If those suggestions don't help, I would suggest looking at using a Restore
Point from System Restore to revert back to before the problem appeared.
Otherwise, you may need to post to the windowsxp.general newsgroup with full
details.