Dimension 2350 desktop.  After returning from a long weekend away, I powered on the computer.

Windows loaded normally right up to my desktop.  However, all my icons reverted back to default setting.

I cannot launch any program, whether it is a shortcut on the desktop, going into the start menu and selecting a program or going into windows explorer and selecting the associated .exe file.  System was running perfectly when I left just days before.  It was completely shut down and not connected to the internet while I was away.

 

I cannot access the internet to access links/run anti-virus programs some recommended in other posts similar to this problem.  And yes, I was running Avast AntiVirus when this happened.  In addition, if I load a CD into the drive, the contents are either not recognized or after a long, long wait the contents will be displayed but I cannot launch anything.  Same goes for inserting a flash drive and trying to run a program from there.

 

I've tried starting in Safe Mode to no avail.  Same thing happens.

 

I have some files I'd hate to lose, so if anyone can offer advice on how I might be able to resolve this issue

I'm willing to try anything.