Looking for assistance in solving a problem...For future knowledge, computer is a Presario running XP. It seems as though I've contracted...something this morning. From what research I've done, it seems to be some sort of common virus/worm anyone with a minimal knowledge of anti-virus software should be able to fix fairly easily (Constant reboot while starting up). Guess I'm not one of those guys. The problem is that all of the fixes I've seen require a full opening of the windows desktop. I never seem to get to that point. I make it to the startup screen and then shut down, only to repeat continually. I've tried safe mode to no avail. And although I've managed to get it to some sort of CP screen, my limited knowledge of what to do, well allows me to do nothing theen stare at the damn blinking curser. That said, I suppose I'm looking for 3 things: 1) What the hell is this thing? 2) How do I fix it? 3) If nothing else, how can I at least get the computer to some variation of a windows desktop so I can run some tests? Yeah, I'm a longwinded moron. But a grateful one!

You're no moron; just someone in a tough spot. And if you can't to the Windows desktop, that's about as tough as it gets. Have you tried rebooting into the Recovery Console using your XP disk? No, it won't cure the virus infection one bit, but maybe, it will get you further through the boot sequence. At this point, you've got nothing to lose and only the desktop to gain. Frankly, you're probably looking at a complete reinstall anyway. Give the disk a shot in Repair. Transmitter 99X

I would like to know what you were doing just before this started--were you downloading something, visiting Kazaa? Porn sites, game sites, someone else using the pc? However, first, is there a way (as in Me) to get to start? then run, type msconfig in the box, and get to your restore function and try to restore it to an earlier date? If so do this before disabling the system restore files or you won't have any previous date to restore to, right? Right. If that doesn't work, then disable the system restore files right away and clean them out: http://download.nai.com/products/mcafee-avert/SystemHelpDocs/DisableSysRestore.htm Also, check all your physical things--mouse, keyboard, all jacks an plugs, monitor to pc connections...check everything physical. If you were downloading or visiting known malware ladden sites, then I'd go towrd a bug hunt. But, if the Xp disks don't work then, unless an Xp expert has an idea, i agree--you're looking at a disk wipe if you cannot get to desk top. However, if all else fails try one more before reinstall as a last resort--post your question here: http://www.pcguide.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=21 Without clarifying information I'm thinking you have corrupted files somewhere; I'm not tending toward a bug hunt. Thresher