Steve52 said:
I've read several other threads regarding this issue but cannot resolve
the problem.
Running: WinXP Home SP2
Problem: Windows taskbar is not visible. There are no desktop icons.
Explorer.exe will start manually however, it exits immediately (I can see
the taskbar flash momentarily)
I've performed an in-place upgrade but that did not solve the problem.
This normally happens when the computer is infested with viruses and
spyware. It is usually possible to clean up the computer and fix the
problem, but you need to be familiar with the command line and have a
fairly high computer skill level. You know yourself best. Of course the
problem could be caused by other factors, but I'd start by finding out if
the machine is clean or not. If you want to give it a go, here are general
malware removal steps:
Go through these general malware removal steps systematically -
http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/page2.html#Removing_Malware
Include scanning with either Sysclean or Multi_AV, plus AVG Anti-Spyware
(formerly Ewido -
http://www.ewido.net/en/) and follow instructions to do
all scans in Safe Mode.
When all else fails, run HijackThis and post your log in one of the
specialty forums listed at the link above (not here, please).
If the procedures look too complex - and there is no shame in admitting this
isn't your cup of tea - take the machine to a professional computer repair
shop (not your local version of BigStoreUSA). Please be aware that not all
local shops are skilled at removing malware and even if they are, your
computer may be so infested that Windows will need to be clean-installed.
Have all your data backed up before you take the machine into a shop.
Malke
