Problems, Problems, Problems

mdet74 · #1 11-08-2005, 01:58 PM

Computer working fine a few weeks ago. Then one afternoon, I can not access the internet. Other computers on network can, this one I can not. Computer states that there is no firewall detected, have Xp firewall on at all times, and norton firewall on as well. Try to double-click folders on desktop and they do not open. Startmenu won't open either. Ran antivirus...no luck. Re-boot from XP disk-reinstalled XP. Computer very slow at this point but working. Started to downlad and install updates...again...after SP2, computer back to the way it was in the first place...about to use baseball bat...but first any suggestions.

Miz · #2 11-08-2005, 04:33 PM

Try disabling one of the firewalls. Two don't do you any more good than one and often (as in "usually") creates conflicts.

I vaguely recall that Norton's firewall communicates directly with XP's Security Center to let it know a firewall is running (saving the user the trouble, I guess). It's likely that with two firewalls running and Norton claiming priority, the Security Center got totally confused.

mdet74 · #3 11-08-2005, 04:42 PM

Yeah, I would if I could get to it. I have had this computer for about two years now, and have never had an issue. Remember I can not open anything. The icons will hgihlight and the hour glass will act as though the computer is working, but nothing will happen and the cursor will go back to normal...even the start-up menu is disengaged...thanks for replying though...anyone else?

Miz · #4 11-09-2005, 12:20 PM

Will it start in Safe Mode?

To get into Safe Mode, as soon as the computer start booting up repeatedly press and release the F8 key. That will get you to the boot menu. Choose "Safe Mode with Networking" and press the Enter key.

If it will boot into Safe Mode, see if you can then run virus and spyware scans.

Rogue5 · #5 11-09-2005, 05:24 PM

Did you perform a new installation of XP or reinstalled over the existing install?
You might want to check your RAM, NIC, and HDD to make sure they are ok.
Then install XP w/o SP2 and test performance and internet. If they are ok create a system restore point First then install SP2. Perform the same tests.
That way you can isolate where the problem is. Also make sure you are using the latest drivers for everything.