Severe Problem: Windows Exporer and File Search

[Udo]

Hello,

since months I have the following, really nasty and time consuming
problem (WIN XP prof., German version). When I search for a file using
Windows Explorer, in most cases Windows Explorer hangs (mostly during
typing something in the field of the file name) and I must "kill" its
task. Usually a new instance is then started automatically, but the
system (especially the tray bar with its apps) is out of order.
Sometimes I must manually run explorer.exe with the same consequences.
Rebooting is if course the best solution, but can't do that many times
a day.

Is there any way to fix that problem with low risks? Can't reinstall
XP, that would last weeks...

The application log contains no special error messages, only
"The shell stopped unexpectedly and Explorer.exe was restarted."

I have the suspicion that this problem is the result of removing
add-aware/spyware from my PC, but unfortunately I can't prove it.
Otherwise...

Any hints?

Thanks and greetings
Udo

 

[Guest]

I bought a Brand new Dell 5150c with MCE, and I have never had the search
working.

Tried all the stuff in Kelly's corner, but still doesn't work.

The only think I have done is installed Office XP and copied files and
settings from my old Windows 2000 PC.