Surely someone can tell me what the hell Appcompat.txt is???????????????????????

David, Check out this link. http://www.computing.net/windowsxp/wwwboard/forum/88763.html Tufenuf

Yes someone can... ...and stop calling me shirley. ;) Appcompat.txt is an error file generated by the compatibility mode of Windows XP when a program crashes unexpectedly. Make note of the location of the file and open it in notepad. The contents may give you a clue as to what caused the crash.

Using Application Verifier to Troubleshoot Programs in Windows XP (XP Pro) http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;286568

I actually solved this problem: 1. find the trouble file to begin with, go to the C:/Docum~....apptcompat.txt file (Start-> my computer -> put the whole thing in Address). A text file should open (probably in NOtepad or Wordpad) that will show you the bad file type. 2.installing freeware that removes viruses/parasites/adware etc. (you can find several kinds online and download them) 3. put the computer in safe mode (restart, and press "F8" repeatedly, then choose safe mode option) 4. open the freeware, scan, and delete the file that is causing the problem. 5. Restart the computer in normal mode. One note to mention: 1. don't run a full delete after you scanned your computer. The software just notes non-native software, so good files may come up that you don't need to delete (for example, an internet toolbar that you've installed). Good luck