I can't open properties.

[Callie]

Hi, I have a problem. I'm currently using Windows XP. My problem is
that when I right click on my desktop and then go to properties I get a
mouse with an hourglass for a few seconds, and then nothing loads. This
also happens if I go to Control Panel > Appearances and Themes > and
click on any one of the tasks. I'm wondering if anyone knows how to fix
this so I can get to my properties. Thank you.

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

Right-click is slow or weird behavior caused by context menu handlers:
http://windowsxp.mvps.org/slowrightclick.htm

 

[Callie]

I did what it said to do, but it didn't work. =( Does anyone know any
other ways to fix it?

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

Try an Upgrade, or 'repair' setup.

How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install: http://michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

If you run an XP "Upgrade"setup, from the original, or "Gold" version of the setup CD, and you have SP2 installed, it might go into
a setup loop, and you could lose your install. Uninstall SP2, BEFORE you Upgrade setup from CD (that lacks sp2 on it.)

875350 - How to remove Windows XP Service Pack 2 from your computer: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=875350