doing file search crashes windows

[jeffrychuck1161 0]

when i try to do a file search, or even right click on the desktop, i get an error message and windows has to shut down. Have done many virus searches, have tried to work with the Shell-ex view. nothing seems to work for me. am running xp sp2. Also in the control panel, the networking icon doesn't have words under it anymore, just boxes and other symbols, and when the mouse goes over it that will cause the error message too. thanks.

[peterh 1]

Have you scanned for spyware rather than just a virus check?

Some spyware can affect IE and Explorer in unexpected ways.

Try MS Defender, SpyBot, Spyware Blaster etc.

 

[Sampson 0]

In addition to peterh's suggestions, also look at Spyware Terminator, which is free: http://www.majorgeeks.com/Spyware_Terminator_d5242.html

[jeffrychuck1161 0]

yes, have ran several online scanners, nothing has fiexed problem yet. thanks for the help.

[American Zombie 0]

Try running system file checker.

 

Start > Run > sfc /scannow

[jeffrychuck1161 0]

ran sfc / scannow. it ran, and nothing showed up after the test finished, so i guess everything is ok, or should it show any results after it runs ? thanks again.