The First Question Of Troubleshooting: If the problem is new, what changed
between the time things worked and the time they didn't?
The Second Question of Windows Troubleshooting: what is the malware/virus
status of the machine? If you think it is clean, what programs (and
versions) did you use to determine this?
Be sure the computer is clean:
http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/page2.html#Removing_Malware
See below for more detailed shutdown troubleshooting:
Shutdown issues are generally caused by a program and/or process that is
refusing to exit gracefully. The program and/or process can be from malware
or can be legitimate (such as an invasive antivirus like Norton or McAfee).
If you are using a Norton or McAfee product, uninstall it and replace with
a better program such as NOD32, Kasperksy, or Avast (free). The Windows
Firewall is adequate for most people/
A.The first step is always to make sure your computer is virus/malware free
(see link above).
B. If the computer is virus/malware-free, drivers are current, and no Norton
or McAfee programs are installed, then do clean-boot troubleshooting to see
which program/process is the culprit:
How to perform a clean boot in Vista and XP -
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/331796
C. If you need more information, here is an excellent shutdown
troubleshooter:
http://www.aumha.org/win5/a/shtdwnxp.htm
Standard caveat: If troubleshooting the issue is too difficult - and there
is absolutely no shame in admitting this isn't your cup of tea - take the
machine to a computer repair shop. This will not be your local
BigComputerStore/GeekSquad type of place. Get recommendations from family,
friends, colleagues.
Malke