Can't Access Desktop

Question

This weekend I called myself updating windows (I use xp)  and spyware, but somehow I can no longer get to the desktop on my PC (I'm using a laptop now).  When I turn my pc on my desktop comes up then immediately goes to the welcome screen.  When I click on my name or even the guest name it briefly flashes my dekstop, but says logging off and then loops back to the welcome screen.  Is anyone familiar with this and can you tell me how I can fix it?  I can't use the Dell  reinstallation CD since I can only access the welcome screen. Thanks in advance!  CG

Davet50 · Answer

Try booting into Safe Mode. Tap the F8 key at the big Dell splash screen. then if you get in do a system restore to a time before you applied the updates.

Davet50 · Answer

No that is not exactly what I meant. At the F8 select the Safe Mode option. If it works you will boot into a black screen desktop. Do not be concerned by how it looks as windows will load generic drivers.

IF you get to the desktop go to Start>Programs>Accessories>System Tools> System restore.

MsCEG · Answer

Thanks for the reply.  I did try that, but system restore wasn't one of my options when I pressed F8.  I tried the option'last known configuration' but that didn't work.  Any other suggestions before I call geeks on call!!! :emotion-6:

MsCEG · Answer

Thanks again, I REALLY appreciate you trying to help me. I guess I've really messed it up. When I logged in in safe mode this time it took me to the welcome screen with adminstrator and my name as options and when I clicked on adminstrator it did the same thing...says loading personal settings, quickly changed to logging off and back to the welcome screen...oh well I guess on to Plan B!

Thanks again.

Windows General

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