Problem with Run/Search/Help buttons on Start Menu

[Howie]

My Run/Search/Help and Support buttons on the Start Menu appear to be
disabled. After a reboot, the buttons operate normally (i.e.,
clicking the "Run" button causes the Run box to appear, etc.). But if
I open a program (even Windows Explorer), subsequent clicks on those
menu items result in nothing-- until another reboot and before opening
any programs.

Interestingly, even though the buttons are disabled, the Windows
command for Run (Windows key + "R") still operates (I don't know the
Windows commands for "Search" and "Help and Support").

Any thoughts on what is causing these menu items to become non
functioning?

Thanks,

--Howie

 

[Wesley Vogel]

Howie;
Don't know the fix for your problem. But..............

Windows key + F will bring up Search.
Windows key + F1 will open Help and Support.
When you get it open | type: keyboard shortcuts |
Look around for this one, "Windows keyboard shortcuts overview"
Good luck!

 

[Kelly]

This doesn't sound right at all, but most interesting! When this happens,
open the Task Manager and end process on Explorer.exe. Leave the Task
Manager open and then click on File/New Task and type in: Explorer.exe

In the meantime: Run the Startup Tracker from here and send me the log file
via email:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_u.htm#xp_util

More information, in the meantime:

Why doesn't Search and Help and Support work?
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/top10faqs.htm