before i did any thing else i would get a program called GO Back by adaptec. Then you can revert your hard drive backward in time to the point before the trouble started.
it's also good for grtting rid of virus problems in this way.
Well, before i dig to deep a hole for myself let me say this. i have only had my computer only slightly longer than you. However i have had a small amount of trouble. I reguard reloading windows as a fate next to death.
When nobody else can help me i go to {i don't know how to put this stuff on here like everyone else seems to.} http://www.microsoft.com/windows98/default.asp
I put my cursor on the black word support; and click on knowledge base support.
It serves serval different windows types and a lot of mycrosoft programes like office ect.ect..
I am sorry i can not help more; Oh by the way are you up an all of your window product updates as well as internet explorer updates.?
...not the same thing.
Also i was not kidding about that go back program it has saved my ass about 200 timies already.