User account desktop gets reset to initial state

[Guest]

I have XP (home edition) with an Admin, 2 users, and guest account.

When setting it up, I didn't know how to duplicate users accounts so I got
rid of all the junk that was preinstalled for both users (AOL, Vongo, etc).
Then I got rid of admin priveledge on both user accounts.

I really don't know how it happens or why but twice now, I did something and
the next thing I know, the initial desktop was back on all accounts. With
this, I have to reset everything (explore, outlook, etc). The only thing I
remember doing is switch one of the users to admin priv so I could intall
some additional software.

My questions are:
1. Why is this happening.?
2. How is this happening?
3. Is there some way I can get the desktop back?
4. Is there a way to set up a default profile so if it happens again, it
reverts back to what I have set up anyway?

Any help would be extreemly appreciated.

 

[Rock]

I have XP (home edition) with an Admin, 2 users, and guest account.

When setting it up, I didn't know how to duplicate users accounts so I got
rid of all the junk that was preinstalled for both users (AOL, Vongo,
etc).
Then I got rid of admin priveledge on both user accounts.

I really don't know how it happens or why but twice now, I did something
and
the next thing I know, the initial desktop was back on all accounts. With
this, I have to reset everything (explore, outlook, etc). The only thing
I
remember doing is switch one of the users to admin priv so I could intall
some additional software.

My questions are:
1. Why is this happening.?
2. How is this happening?
3. Is there some way I can get the desktop back?
4. Is there a way to set up a default profile so if it happens again, it
reverts back to what I have set up anyway?

Any help would be extreemly appreciated.

Here are some useful links:

How to create a custom default user profile
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/319974/en-us

HOW TO Create and Configure User Accounts in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=279783

How to Copy a User Profile
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/win_xp_logon.htm

As to the guest account, that should not be used for accessing the system by
a casual user. It's a special purpose account that actually has higher
privileges. Best is to disable it, and created another limited user
account - name it whatever you want - for your casual users.