Win XP - Desktop right click, dialog box disappears

I've tried reading through the FAQ but can't find anything that connects with the issue I'm having. I initially thought it was a virus or spyware issue - but after running two programs (Pareto and Spyware Doctor) nothing. Restarting doesn't help.

I can't even use the start menu as soon as I try to click, the dialog box disappears. Right clicking for properties on the desktop - same thing - I can see the box but as soon as I try to click an option - it disappears. The functionality is just not there. Any ideas?

C.

 

Open up regedit.exe through the start menu search or run box, and then browse down to the following key (create the key if it does not exist)

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer



Create a new 32-bit DWORD value on the right-hand side named NoViewContextMenu with one of these values:

* Enable Context Menus: 0
* Disable Context Menus: 1

The change should be instant, whether enabling or disabling the context menus.

 

I discovered the problem ...

The issue seems to have progressed and I'm wondering now if there's also a virus or worm that I can't find. My software for email is Eudora (long story) and I currently use Flock as my default browser. When I access with the shortcuts, the two seem to be "linked" because to open Flock, it actually opens my Eudora program! I'm thinking of trashing the shortcuts and checking on opening the program from programs.

... per your suggested instructions, I assume it's best to have a restore point - yes? And, is there a clarification with the string with Explor er ... was this intended or should it be Explorer? Would this be incorrect as I am using Flock and not IE?

I'm working with my office laptop at the moment - I don't have a browser on my home computer.

Cricket

Post Script ... I was reading other threads and was struck by a comment about "keeping it simple ". I realized I hadn't thought about checking my wireless mouse. Believe it or not - a battery I had installed last month (I tag a date so I know how long they've been installed) - corroded in place! I took out my trusty pocket knife, scraped off the contact points, cleaned with a bit of isopropol alcohol and put in new batteries! The issues with the desktop stopped. What is interesting is that the signal on my Logitech wireless mouse didn't show any issue! A simple solution - may work for someone else!

 

Steve ... The other night I was having trouble getting into the control panel, I had to use the keyboard. I recall that doing so, I could get to the display (I needed to reset my sleep mode as one of my spyware programs was going to take a while).
The system isn't a rebuild; its a Dell Dimension 2300 (not overly zippy - but nearing its end I think). I'm booting it up right now - I shut it down so give more thought. I'm not the only user, so I can't be sure what may have occurred 100% (I did ask but ... )

The system was working ok up to a week ago. That's when I noticed the issue with the desktop. I did install Windows XP updates in that timeframe and updates to my spyware programs.

Cricket

 

Steve ... just tried the Control panel; Start will display the options, but I have to highlight and use the keyboard "C" to access - same for display, but I can't go any farther, it all blinks off.

C.