I was recently working on a firends computer to remove spyware. I got them a copy of System Mechanic Pro 5 and Spybot Search & Destroy. I ran both spyware programs and cleared the junk files. Now when I reboot, I get the Windows XP boot screen with the green loading bar. However, the green bar will run smoothly for a few seconds before stopping, then going again. It does it rythmically, it's not random. I also cannot boot in safe mode, it loads the drivers and system files, then just stops. Is it freezing at a certain point, or am i just too impatient to let it load?

Well maybe you should try last good configuration by hitting f8 at startup ...

Have you tried 'step by step confirmation' startup option & see where it stalls? "I know that I'm mad - I've always been mad..."

Yes I have tried last good configuration, but to no avail. I also tried Restoring it, but when I choose the option, it does nothing in the way of actually restoring it. I will try the Step-byStep confirmation.

How to do a system repair-Boot from the xp cd and go past the recovery console to the install menu. Select repair the existing installation. You won't lose any data except the xp updates. Unless you have a slipstream sp1 cd you will have to d/l sp1 and all subsequent updates. Be sure the firewall and A/V is active before going online as you will be susceptible to sasser and msblaster. If you don't want SP2 go to autopatcher.com and d/l SP1 and subsequent updates. Please post back within 24 hours or I will delete the post from my follow up list. Thanks.

Yes yes, I have read that, but it does nothing. It says it's going to check the hard drive but then does absolutely nothing. Could someone maybe shine some light onto what caused this perhaps? I explained everything I did and do not understand what would have caused it.

In the cleaning process you probably deleted a registry entry that was used for startup. System repair will restore it. Please post back within 24 hours or I will delete the post from my follow up list. Thanks.