Hello PCHF,
Lately, when I try to use fast user switching, after selecting another acct, the desktop comes up but the task bar is solid blue. No start button, tray icons, nothing. Nothing on the desktop will respond at this point. I am able to open the task manager using the keyboard. But if I try to log off, or restart, I get an "explorer exe. program not responding" message. If I hit "end now" it acts like it is going to work, then nothing. At that point the only way to get out of it (that I know of) is to hit the tower button.

If I log off the acct I am using, and select another from the welcome screen, the problem does not happen.

I do regular scans with ZoneAlarm anti-virus (which is Kaspersky anti-vir), SpySweeper, and occasionally, AVG anti vir, and Super Anti Spyware. Nothing is found.

Any ideas?

Hi there, I recommend doing a system file check.

Insert your XP CD into the drive and go to start->run and type sfc /scannow

This will check your system files are intact.

Hi Lebowski,
Thanks for the response, I'll try your suggestion and report back.

cb

Hello again,
Sorry it took me so long to get back.
I did as you suggested. It went through the motions, said it was scanning, it then asked me to insert my xp professional cd2. I don't have a second cd. All I have is a single reinstallation dvd from Dell which I have discussed at length in a previous thread.http://www.pchelpforum.com/windows-xp-2000/27430-resolved-windows-operating-system-disc.html
So I clicked cancel and it told me that the files had been replaced with unrecognized versions, and system instability could occur unless I inserted the second cd. So I exited and restarted, so far the pc seems to be functioning okay, though it is probably too soon to tell.
Now I don't know what to do. Ironically, my task bar problem seems to be resolved, and I can switch back and forth with no problem.
I guess I'll just have to wait and see what happens as I use my pc.
Please lemme know what you think.

Thanks, cb

Hello, Just a quick update/bump.
So far my pc if functioning normally, and I am still able to use fast user switching.
I would still be interested in your professional opinion.

Thanks, cb