Taskbar failure

I use Win XP (HE). Recently, when I turn my computer on, my taskbar appears as usual but remains blank. No 'Start' and no program icons. Nothing whatsoever. Eventually, after closing Windows with the main button, I start again and maybe the full taskbar will appear. On the first startup it doesn't however. I've restored successfully to previous checkpoints but the problem remains. Any suggestions, please? Thank you.

 

Pete ...

Bad link to Kelly's-Korner. Good link.

Lugwalker ...

Are you able to access the Start menu with the Windows key (adjacent to the Alt keys)? If so, try logging off and back on.

The Taskbar, including the Start button and the Notification area (system tray) is a function of explorer.exe. You might try opening Task Manager (Ctrl + Alt + Del), shutting down explorer (highlight explorer.exe, right-click, click on End Process, then Yes) and re-starting it (File menu > New Task > type in explorer).

Sounds like you'll eventually be running the System File Checker. When you can open a command line (you can do so in Task Manager), type sfc /scannow (note the space before the /).

 

Thanks, Pete, for the link to 'TaskBar Repair' (and Jim for the better link). I installed and used it, then restarted the computer and all was well. Hopefully the problem is solved, but I'll only know for sure when I restart Windows again a few more times. If the problem comes back, Jim, I'll then follow your advice and report back. Many thanks again, gentlemen

 

No problem, Pete. As you can see from your post, the whole URL wasn't included in your link. Tsk, tsk! I'd have thought better from a staff member.