I keep getting this message and internet exlorer keeps shutting down. I am not very savvy when it comes to adding code.. can someone please walk me through how I CAN FIX this? thanks: EXPLORER caused a general protection fault in module USER.exe at 0004:00000499. Registers: EAX=c0030002 CS=17af EIP=00000499 EFLGS=00000202 EBX=00030000 SS=742f ESP=00008520 EBP=01208530 ECX=00000000 DS=16bf ESI=00030000 FS=7477 EDX=819c7427 ES=0000 EDI=00000000 GS=0000 Bytes at CS:EIP: Sandy

Before getting too complicated I would try the following which often sort out general problems (they are both harmless). "Shut down" to MS-DOS and type scanreg /fix (hit Return key). This will rebuild your current registry. Type exit (Return) to restart Windows. Go to Control Panel/Add-Remove and double click the entry "Microsoft IE & Tools". If the IE Repair option is available go for it. Post back whether they helped or not. Derek.W

Thanks Derek, I tried it... and it is still giving me the error message and internet explorer gets shut down :( Sandy

"EXPLORER caused a general protection fault in module USER.exe at 0004:00000499" This is a WINDOWS EXPLORER (files system) fault, NOT an INTERNET EXPLORER fault. Almost any program will crash or freeze under a general protection fault. I would try scanreg/restore instead .. but don't restore the copy you just made with "fix" - you already know it isn't working. You don't have to be realistic to be cynical, but you DO have to be cynical to be realistic!

You now need someone who's clever. While you are waiting here's what Google showed up (searching "explorer general protection fault user.exe"): CLICK HERE As you might well know, Explorer refers to Windows Explorer not IE, so you have a general problem. Seems this is also manifesting itself in IE which is closely linked into W9x operating systems. If all else fails Windows overlay might fix it but let's hope someone can suggest something better or you find something useful in that search. Derek.W

.... might also be worth looking in the Groups tab on that Google link. Derek.W

Have a look at this (Causes of General Protection Faults and Troubleshooting Tips); http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;82710 It may help you narrow down the problem.