User & program problems

im having problems with windows xp pro, all of a sudden 3 out of 4 of the accounts will not function properly the display settings have all been reset and have changed to classic mode and they will not change if i try to change them they stay the same, also a lot of programs will not load on these accounts whereas on the functioning account these programs will load and work fine!? im really confused any help much appreciated thanks

 

Step #1 - a good virus scan using an online virus scanner. RAV is good and is free.

Step #2
start~run~cmd and at the command prompt
chkdsk c: /r and tell it Y(es) to doing it at next reboot then reboot.

Step #3
start~run~sfc /scannow

Post back after that and say how you are doing.

 

hmmm iv tryed that stil not havin much luck? any ideas?? thnks

 

Ideas, yes. A 'fix ", not yet.

Which account is still working properly?

If you create a new account, will it continue to behave for a while?

 

the administrator account is working fine. im not sure if a new one would work i havnt tryed?

 

Give it a try. If things stay working properly then with a little work you can set up all new accounts to replace the problem ones, transfer the essential stuff from old to new, and rename so the new ones are given the same names as the old ones.

Note the 'names' will be people names and the PC will continue to see the new accounts by their security ID so won't get confused.

Then simple enough to delete to bad accounts.

How to Copy User Data to a New User Profile will give you specifics about replacing the bad accounts.