a freind has a problem logging onto windows on her laptop...she is using winxp ...
when the laptop is booted up it goes as far as the login to account page but when password is entered it says loading your personal settings the instantly says saving your settings and stays on the login screen anyone have any ideas...could this be a virus and if so how do you do a virus scan without loggin onto windows?

Hi armo1234.

You could try logging into either the Administrator account or boot into Safe Mode.

Administrator login: After the BIOS POST (power-on self-test) but before Windows has started to boot keep tapping F8. This will get you into the Boot Option Menu. Choose the Administrator account.

Safe Mode: Same procedure except try "Safe Mode with networking".
_

tried logging on in safe mode but the same thing happens with administrator password too the thing has just locked us out completley

If you really can't log in, I do suggest a reinstallation of windows. Just make sure you have backed-up your files before doing that. ^^

how do I backup all files without logging in?

When you really cannot log into windows, try backing up your data by using an enclosure for 2.5" hard drives and connecting it to another PC via USB, such as this one:
2.5" USB 2.0 Aluminum Hard Disk Drive Enclosure Case

You need to remove the laptop's hard drive and place it inside the enclosure and then connect it to another PC via the USB cable.