My computer is not connected to the net for the past 3 mounths and i have been unable to get up to date definition for anti viral software. resently every time i start up as soon as the windows desktop appear a error message about a problem with the generic host 32. THis happens 7/10 times and once it happens no other program will run and i cant shut the computer down normally, ctrl alt del wont work either. nothing will work.. -

Possible cause, not exactly the same error- Generic Host Process Error Message and a Flashlight Icon Appear http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;821690 -------------- How to Perform a Clean Boot in Windows XP To help troubleshoot error messages or other issues when you cannot determine the cause of the issue, disable common startup programs, settings, and drivers to eliminate possible software conflicts when you start Microsoft Windows XP. This procedure is known as "clean booting." ------------- (Can be done by way of Windows Safe-Mode, if normal Windows does not work) A Description of the Safe Mode Boot Options in Windows XP logon as Administrator, but where it says RESTART, restart into normal Windows.) ------------- How to perform advanced clean-boot troubleshooting in Windows XP Print the articles for reference. ---------------- To find out what each Startup(or Process) item does or means, and any recommendation as to if you should close the process: Task List Programs