Try this: start, settings, active desktop, and look to see if there is a checkmark next to "View as Web page. If there is remove the checkmark by clicking in it and then see if that corrects the problem.
Dave

thankyou for replying however there is nothing titled active desktop in the settings folder in the start menu.

Windows Me and this problem began before upgrading

When you select settings do you see an option for folder options? If so select it and you will see a dot in the circle next to "custom based on settings you choose. If it is there select advanced and post the items selected. Next after you close advanced at the top select view and select the restore defaults and see what happens. I remember seeing this problem once before and can't remember exactly what it was that corrected it.
Dave

What version of windows are you running?
Dave

there is no folder options in settings although there is a folder options in control pannel. I opened that and saw no text conserning custom based on settings you choose
thanks anyway

I just looked and like you said there is no option to set back to default under desktop themes. But I did notice under display in the control panel at the top there is a Web to click on. There you have an option to view desktop as a web page. I don't remember the program but it seems like it was an internet thing. But the solution had something to do with viewing desktop as a web page. Seems I tried a different wallpaper and actually had to delete it to get this corrected.
Dave

Ok, I just emailed someone with ME and the options you have are correct for ME. So maybe you need to concentrate on the settings in control panel under desktop themes. Have you also tried the display settings under control panel to be sure you have the correct resolution setup?
Dave

Did you have windows 98 and upgraded to ME? What exactly is under the settings?
Dave

i did upgrade from 98 but the problem began in 98 and continued through ME. the upgrade did not wipe out any info, nor most settings.
the settings folder contains-control panel, dial up networking, printers and taskbar
i think the the key is most likely in control panel somewere