can't find user on boot

I get an error message when I boot my laptop (XP home), it says it can't find my user settings. I get a new blank desktop with some programs that don't work because it is asking me to enter the serial number again. I had a hard time finding my files because they were under the old user name.

How can I restore to my original user profile?

 

You mention the "old user name ". Did you create a new account?

System Restore would be the first choice in trying to recover your earlier functionality. Is there some reason that that is not available?

An alternative would be to create a new user (which you may have done already) and to copy the old profile into the new username. This is done by going to Control Panel, System applet, Advanced tab, User Profiles Settings button, and copying as needed to the new account.