XP hangs just after startup

[roarrry]

XP seems to start normally but when I try and launch the 1st application
(internet etc) then the application doesn't start and I'm unable to do
anthing at all. I can still activate some butons (to re-start, shut down etc)
but these also don't work. My only option is to hold the power button down
and switch on again. This happens around 50% of the time I switch my pc on.
Any suggestions for trouble shooting would be gratefully received. Thanks.

 

[Script]

Depending on how many and exactly what apps load at startup, you may just
need to wait three minutes or so (for all apps to load, update, etc.) before
trying to do anything.

 

[windmap]

See if this problem also occurs in safemode.Press f8 when you see windows logo when you turn on the computer.
If system didn’t hangup while in safe mode .Cause could be anything Virus/Newly installed software/Too many start up items
Uninstall all newly installed software using ADD/Remove.ADD/Remove
Disable all startup items using MS config msconfig
Update your system Virus scanner Perform complete system checkup.
Download Spyware Doctor distributed free of cost with google packs.Install and scan for spyware. http://pack.google.com/intl/en/pack_installer.html?hl=en&gl=us
Install all windows updates. windowsupdate.microsoft.com/