[Sniperfire]

Hello,
I recieved a windows update I clicked on it to update, and there was an error that locked my computer. I am running windows xp, when I restarted my computer my toolbar changed. I used to be able to click on tabs and open several windows at once that is completely gone. I am sure there is an easy fix but I am new and not extremely computer litterate. Thought I would see if someone here could help before I spent money to fix this what I believe to be an easy fix. Thanks, Jeff

 

[mack1]

Hi Jeff and welcome to TSF:wave:

There are a couple of easy and fast ways to try.
1. Try 'boot to last good configuration' or something similar. To get the Advanced Boot screen up, at startup, tap on the F8 key. If you miss it, it will boot to Windows normally, just try again. On that screen pick the last good configuration option.

2. Try a system restore. It is found at Start>Programs>Accessories>SystemTools then pick System Restore. On the screen that comes up, tell it you want to restore to an earlier time. The next screen will have a calander with some Bold dates. They are the ones that have the restore points. Pick one just back from today.

A restore occurs periodically and when you install software or have a problem. If you select a date that is too early, some of your software might not appear after the restore. A restore is reversable. Just go back to system restore and the return opion is available.

Hope this helps,:smile:
Mack1

 

[Sniperfire]

Hi Jeff and welcome to TSF:wave:

There are a couple of easy and fast ways to try.
1. Try 'boot to last good configuration' or something similar. To get the Advanced Boot screen up, at startup, tap on the F8 key. If you miss it, it will boot to Windows normally, just try again. On that screen pick the last good configuration option.

2. Try a system restore. It is found at Start>Programs>Accessories>SystemTools then pick System Restore. On the screen that comes up, tell it you want to restore to an earlier time. The next screen will have a calander with some Bold dates. They are the ones that have the restore points. Pick one just back from today.

A restore occurs periodically and when you install software or have a problem. If you select a date that is too early, some of your software might not appear after the restore. A restore is reversable. Just go back to system restore and the return opion is available.

Hope this helps,:smile:
Mack1

Hello Mack,
Guess I should have specified that this happened 4 months ago, the computer is running fine but my windows tabs are gone. I have to run one window at a time now. Any other ideas how to get my window tabs back would be appreciated.
Thanks, Jeff

 

[mack1]

Hi Jeff,

That does make a difference. Probably not any good restore points.
Have you tried this, right click on start and select properties. Under that, select Clasic Start Menu. Might work.

In run, type chkdsk /r and see if that will help. It might take it a while to complete, but can repair some system files on your computer.

After that, repair gets a little harder and you will need a valid copy of Windows Install CD. You can borrow one if you don't have one. You can do a system repair that is non destructive for your installed programs.

I'll be out of pocket the rest of the afternoon. Others will probably add some help. I'll check back in later.

Best regards,
Mack1