cannot delete any programmes

When I am online, without warning I cannot delete any programmes. I either have to reboot my computer or I press Ctrl, Alt and delete, then windows taskmaster appears on my screen. At the bottom of my screen I have a yellow shield. Also a green with a grey background grid appears next to my online tvs. Can anyone possibly help me with my problem? Mae Williamson

 

The yellow shield in the Notification Area (near the time display) usually means your computer has downloaded updates from Microsoft and is notifying you they're present but need your okay to install. Click on the yellow shield to open the update window.

A green grid appears in the same area when you have Task Manager open.

I'm not sure what you mean by "can't delete any programmes." What exactly are you trying to delete and what happens when you try? Do you get an error message? If so, what exactly does it say?

 

thanks for your prompt reply Miz. Much appreciated. I think I am using the incorrect terminology. What I mean is not closing programmes but closing windows before I actually log off. The only way I can overcome this is by activating the ctrl, alt and delete buttons on my keyboard (then the taskmaster appears, plus the green grid). I give it a few minutes and then things appear to come right and I can proceed with closing my open windows and shutting down my PC. I have downloaded updates by activating the yellow shield but it still appears occasionally. I am in my 70s and not terribly computer literate to say the least so I really do welcome any support from you clever people. Mae Williamson

 

Windows sends out updates fairly regularly, especially ones for Windows Defender. Anytime you see the yellow shield, click on it to install whatever updates Microsoft has sent your way.

There are several ways to close a window. Try them all to see if any work:
1. Click with the left mouse button on the tiny x at the upper right corner of the window.
2. Click on File (upper left of the window), then on Exit (some say Close).
3. Click with the right mouse button on the window's icon down on the Taskbar, then left click Close.
4. Press one of the Alt keys on the keyboard (there's one on either end of the Spacebar), hold it down and press the F4 key (top row of keys on the keyboard). When you let both keys go, whatever window is on top at the time should close.

 

Attention of Arie Slob and Miz,

Eventually I had to call in a computer technician to help me solve my problems ($NZ62). My problems were all due to my mouse which was totally (almost) ineffective. He sold me a new mouse and everything has come right. Just to refresh your memory guys for what it is worth. I was unable to delete any windows. I pressed the control, alt and delete buttons then windows taskmaster appeared on my screen. Also a yellow shield next to the TVs. And a green striped grid next to online TVs. Finally my cursor stopped moving altogether and I knew then it was time for some decisive action. Thanks for your help anyway. Mae Williamson