Lately, my computer gets stuck during startup; all it shows is the Active Pattern (as selected in Display Properties) but not the wallpaper, and the cursor arrow in the center of the screen, but it just sits and waits, no HD activity.
The only way to get out of it is to shut the power off and restart, and then it starts up just fine and works without problems all day. Anybody have an idea what this may be?
The only way to shut it down is to remove power and restart, then it starts up normal and works fine all day. Does anybody know what the problem may be?

Please disregard the last 6 lines.

Go to the system configuration utility and see whats listed under the startup tab ? Now many Windows system items are a must to load at startup ,however look for a referance to an app or program that you installed. Thru a process of elimination you should be able to find the culprit ? To pen this utility go to START/RUN/MSCONFIG , click on the startup tab ,after removing an item reboot, and see if PC starts normal !
Good Luck Nick