Windows loads, accounts open, but cannot access programs or data

Question

I have two nearly identical systems, both running XP Home.On machine #1 today I noticed a general slowdown with routine operations like opening and closing folders. Out of nowhere the folders, programs, and control panel options stopped responding: I click and may see the hourglass briefly, then nothing happens. Managed to get system restore open a couple of times but the restore just hung and I finally shutdown via the power button. Now I cannot get into system restore at all.   When I restart everything appears normal but then I just get stuck again. I can get in via Safe Mode, but am unsure how to proceed once I get there. I did confirm that all data is there.   No recent hardware changes. Only software change was that I replaced AVG Antivirus + Firewall with NOD32 [and the Windows firewall]. Made this change on both machines on the same day: the other machine is fine, so I don't think it's related.   One curious thing that started showing up a couple of days ago was a Windows style dialog box that would pop up as soon as the admin account loaded. Box says 'Computer restart required' in the heading and 'The computer must be restarted to complete updating.' Have no idea what it is.   Does any of this sound familiar? I do have everything backed up, but this is worrisome. Would like to avoid a complete reinstallation of Windows and all of my programs.Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.   dg

dg27 · Answer

Turns out AVG + Firewall did not uninstall completely. Also, there was apparently a conflict between NOD32 and TrojanHunter 4.5. Installed UnClean 2, uninstalled NOD, AVG, and TH, thenj reinstalled NOD. All good now.

Windows General

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