Hi,

I saw a posting on a problem that is very similar to mine. I am unable to view my desktop icons, start menu bar, or explorer after logging in either threw a normal startup or threw safe mode. I have attempted to use the Task Manager to run Windows Explorer and am unable to do so. I have also attempted run Internet Explorer and have been unable to run that either. I have run CHKDSK and found no bad sectors and have run sfc /scannow without any indications of issues but still have the same issue. I have looked in my registry under the following location for Explorer or IExplorer and did not find it.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\

I still have access to the internet threw my main computer however the machine that has the trouble is my laptop and I just started having this issue late last night. I will do my best to provide you with any more information that I can and hope this issue can be resolved.

I am using a Sony Vaio VGN-FS1760/W Laptop with upgraded memory to 2Gigs and 100 GB HDD. I have Windows XP home SP3 and it generally has the latest updates from Microsoft.
Eric

This post has been edited by StarrEj: Oct 27 2009, 09:54 AM

Eric, all your running processes look legitimate. I don't see anything that is virus/malware related.

This does smell like malware of some kind though. I'd suggest you go to the HijackThis™ Logs and Infections Removal forum, read the info there and follow the posted directions. Once you receive a clean bill of health, come back here if you have any additional questions or concerns or it turns out not to be a malware problem.

Please be patient as that is a very busy area. If you do not receive a response in 3 days, post a message here: http://forums.whatthetech.com/What_Do_If_Y...ays_t78698.html

When you post there, be sure to include a pointer back to this thread. It may help the malware person check your system).