files wont open!!

Hello

I am hoping someone can help me.

I am having the following problem with my Windows XP:

When I try to open a folder on the desktop or on the start panel short cut (ie my computer, my documents, any kind of folder),
the screen goes entirely blank (just the desktop wall paper is shown) for around 5 seconds, and then it comes back to normal with no folder opened.

I can open shortcuts to any kind of program (ie Word, excel, photoshop), with no problem but it is not opening any files.

The only way I can acess a file is to open the relevant program and open the file through that.

I have no idea why it has happened, it was working last night.

I have installed a BT Broadband but I am sure that couldn't have effected it?

Any help would be much appreciated as I am well and truly stuck! I have restarted the computer and that hasn't helped.

 

To eliminate the possibility of malware infection, you may want to read the following thread and post whatever is instructed in the Removing Spyware & Viruses subforum.

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Next,

1. Which version of Windows XP does this PC run? Home or Professional edition?

2. Do you have the latest service pack installed? What about all of the latest hotfixes from Windows Update?

3. What was the last thing you did on the PC before this problem started happening?

 

Hello

I tried a system restore a few days ago and it worked perfectly.

I then tried to reinstall my BT broadband CD so I could use the interenet.
It did the same thing as before with the files not opening.

I then used the system restore again and once again tried installing different sections of the BT broadband CD. And again the files stopped opening.

So I have tried to use system restore again and it wont work! I have tried 3 different dates and it just says "Restore not completed, your system has not been changed ".

Now I am stuck with my files not opening! :-(

I am wondering if anyone has any ideas?

I have run Sptbot and Avira antivirus softwear and nothing has come up.

I am using Windows XP home.

Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks

 

Have you tried running Windows Task Manager, maybe there is a program(s) running that you don't want to run.