Error msg/desktop frozen

[Guest]

Hi, I run XP Pro but for a reason unknown to me, everytime I startup and
log-in, I get an error msg saying something like '...temp/dll file cannot be
found'. The cursor can move around, but the desktop is effectively frozen,
and the eggtimer appears everytime I move to the taskbar. There is also a
big white 'X' on a red circle on the taskbar where my usual icons used to be.

Is this a virus? I am expecting someone to tell me I need to format my hard
drive, but I have no clue how to do that with a frozen desktop!

Please help - I'm not completely clueless, but this has totally thrown me.
Thank God for my laptop...
Thanks,
Amanda

 

[Michael T]

See if you can boot in Safe Mode (pressing F8 a few times while booting).

Now scan for viruses.

 

[Guest]

HI Michael,

Sorry for the delay in thanking you for your tip - It was indeed a virus.
All seems to be working well now. Thanks again