XP shutting down with following Error Msg, HELP!

[oops]

I am not computer savvy, but this is what it says mostly:

"Driver_IRQL_Not_Less_Or_Equal

Make sure any new hardware or software is properly installed. Ask for
any windows updates you might need.

If problem continues disable or remove any newly installed hardware or
software. Disable BIOS memory options such as caching or shadowing. If
you need to use safe modeto remove ot disable components, restart
computer, press F8 to select Advanced Start up options and then select
safe mode.

Tech Info"
Blah...blah
afd.sys_Address F817D
471base@F816B000,
Date stamp 41107eb5


So anyway, it has happened on a few occassions. I don't know what to
do to fix this!
Also I went to system configuration utility and attemped to remove a
program from start up. After I did that my computer was so jacked up I
had to restore to a previous restore point. Can't you get a program to
quit coming up everytime you start your computer anymore?

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated! TIA

 

[Andrew E.]

DRIVER_IRQL,is usually a hardware related issue,open event viewer & get
specific info when this took place,or go to run,type:Msinfo32 Chk the
hardware
tree,problem devices..As for programs starting,go to run,type:services.msc
In msc,double click on the service,set to manual or disable...

 

[oops]

Thanks a BUNCH, Andrew E. I was able to resolve the programs starting
per your instructions.
However, I looked at event viewer and ran Msinfo32. But I don't know
what I should be looking for or how to resolve this. Can you provide
more help? Thanks