I have an adsl line with an alcatel modem. When I start up the connection applications fail to start no error is produced you simply get the egg timer next to the cursor, then it goes, and thats it. This does not happen all the time, probably one out of every 2 times I start my computer. I have already done the following: run adaware run spybot sd [both with up to date def files] run norton anti virus run disk checkers and their ilk I have been through lists of processes to check there origins. I have been through lists of startup items that are deemed uneccessary. I have reinstalled and updated the alcatel dial up software. I have even run a thorough memtest just out of desperation. Anybody got any ideas?

Do you mean your connection doesn't connect? Or that other apps don't start? I think you mean the former. Why are you installing dial-up software if you have dsl? You should be connected all the time.

Salgolf, Yes your right my connection starts but applications dont open. Its also impossible to bring up task manager or for that matter to close the connection. My ADSL modem comes with software that includes a diagnostic tool and the dialer package [bit that establishes the connection]. I think you may be getting confused with a cable modem which does indeed remain connected all the time.

I have exact same problem. pccillin found a spybot named 'bkdr_spybot.et'. Look in your win.ini file for [limeybastad]run=wlnstart32.exe Please email me and let me know how you go. I have removed all this junk but I cant connect to server anymore. It really has stuffed my PC. I reinstalled modem and connection and cleaned up but no luck.