About 2 weeks AGO I had an issue with my comp when it restarted if it was doing too much at once. Then on Monday I was reading a blog on Myspace, the screen froze, explorer crashed and my task bar went tiny (I usually have it 3-high and it went down to 1-high). I restarted my computer and when it came back on my taskbar had completely GONE, which obviously resulted in missing start menu. I cant get internet explorer, windows media player, and most windows FILES working. Also any sounds on websites arent working, looking at the sound thingy (sorry dont know the proper word) it says I have no speakers? Yet I can play itunes with no problems and videos in real player and quick time work fine with sound. I thought I'd lost MSN at first, which being another windows thing I assumed was connected, but I've managed to get that on today.
When I load the computer up the Windows "Welcome" screen shows for ages, then that clears and my desktop wallpaper comes on...and slowly my desktop icons appear (just my computer, my documents, recycle bin and 3 short cuts).
I've tried deleting things thinking maybe it was memory buit its made no difference.
I'm not very clever when it comes to computers, so is there anything simple that I can do?
Oh and its Windows XP. And nearly forgot to say...I cant copy and paste either...?!
Thanks in advance
Debs
xxxFirst step is to try to get the start menu back. Have you tried the windows key on your keyboard? you can also try ctrl ESC keyboard combo to bring it up. Once you can get that, do a system restore. It is under start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools.  If you still can't get to the start menu, try going to C:\windows\system32\restore\rstrui.exe.Neither of those things work, and I tried system restore last Wednesday and it didnt make any difference!How to Perform a Windows XP Repair Install: http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htmThat sounds a bit risky for someone who doesnt really know what their doing!If that is a bit daunting you can try the following:
Go to Start/Run and type in sfc /scannow and hit Enter...
Have your XP CD handy as it will ask for it.
Let it run to completion and re-boot.Try patio's advice, first.
If it doesn't work, read my link very carefully. You can do it. It's not that complicated. You won't lose any data.