my mom has a compaq windows ME, and we can't get it to start windows. She used the Compaq Restore cd that came with the computer, and restored it to the factory settings. It still doesn't load windows. It will only start when we go to safe mode. Then, the mouse is jumping all over the place, we can't even get the pointer to the Start button. When I go to start in DOS, I try typing and the keyboard only works occasionally.Is this a virus? She doesn't have the operating cd, but she does have the product ID (legal). She also can't find the Startup Disk. There are no beeping noises, and no error messages. Will a boot disk download for win ME work? If so, what would I type to get it to work? It is all usb connections, mouse, keyboard, printer. I'm new at this, but I'm willing to try anything.

hello sounds like a virus.

Is there any way to get rid of it? I borrowed a cd copy of nortons from a friend, but how can i scan the pc if i cant get it to respond? Do i have to format the hard drive and install a new operating system? all we have is windows Me restore cd. My dad might be able to get me windows 98 cd. can i format this computer with windows 98? at this point, my mom doesnt care about losing anything.

An Anti-virus program that runs from a floppy may find something... http://www.f-prot.com/ As for your 'restore' CD. This may help explain what might be on it..... http://www.computing.net/windowsme/wwwboard/forum/21386.html Response Number 11 If your PC came with Win ME pre-installed, a regular Win ME install CD will not work with your serial number. If you wanted to go down that path, you would have to install using someone else's serial number, then go into the registry to change the number back to the one you have. When I phoned MS in Ireland, they said it didn't matter what number was in the registry, as long as I had 'A' license for the OS I was using. If you need to re-install, a website that walks you through formatting the HD and re-installing an OS...... http://fdisk.radified.com It would help to have the dead PC next to the working so you can follow the details on the screen. You can post back here if you get stuck as everyone wants to help!!

Thank you, everyone. I won't be back at my moms until sunday (custody thing). I'll give the floppy antivirus program first, if it fails, then i'll try re-installing. Again, thank you! I'll reply when Im' done.

Do you know what kind of Compaq it is, model and number? (Example Presario 5360)

It's a compaq presario 5000