I apologize for not knowing my pc specs. It's an older compaq pc (mid 90s) with Win 95, used mainly for internet and word processing. I received an error message "explorer caused an invalid page fault in module SHELL32.DLL at 0137:7fdcc819". The pc then locked and the same message appears at startup and startup then locks with no access to any programs. I have a working boot/startup disk, but not sure how to proceed. I recently added a cd burner using Nero software and had several trouble-free days. After reviewing files after the cd install I noticed the install program was huge and probably unnecessary - so I deleted. Is this related to the error message? Thank you for your help.

I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM! same exact thing happened on a dell. i am not sure what caused this. i posted awhile ago but no-one really knew an answer. i had to take the hard drive out and hook it up as a 2nd drive on another computer just so i could pull the data off temporary, reformat the drive, reinstall the OS, hook the drive back up as a 2nd, pull the files back over, and reuse the pc as before. sorry but that's the only advice i have from the same exact problem. i hope you figure it out cause i have never seen it before. sounds like a new virus though or bug from some software.

Try this. shell32.dll

Dave, Thank you for your response. Unfortunately the Microsoft solution assumes I have access to my desktop, which I don't. Syner, Thank you for your response as well, and pulling the hard drive seems to be my only option. If you could direct me to a source of info on how to remove the HD, etc as you did I would appreciate it. Again, thank you both Regards Craig

Have you tried to boot up in safe mode?

I've made several attempts at starting from safe mode (line confirmation, etc). All attempts still get me only to the background screen and the same shell message. Do you think deleting a couple registry keys would help? I've been researching that as a possibility, (and to avoid pulling the HD, downloading data onto another pc, etc.)

"starting from safe mode"?? Line confirmation does not start in safe mode. From startup menu, select #3 safe mode. If that doesn't work, try command prompt only. Post back results.