Win XP loads up, but really, it doesn't.

[briley]

This is a first for me. I just installed XP Service Pack 3 on my laptop this morning. I also updated my virus program (Avast) and firewall (Zone Alarm). After updating my firewall, I restarted my computer as directed and XP loads, but then hangs, I guess. My task bar and my usual programs don't load. The mouse is positioned in the middle of the screen and I can move it. I can see my desktop wallpaper. However, when I go down to the task bar to pull up a program or access the start menu, it is nowhere to be found. Pretty much the only thing I can do is pull up the task manager. Is there any way I can fix this through the task manager?

-B

My computer specs:

Intel P4 3.0ghz 512mb, 40gb, DVD/CDRW, 802.11g, 64mb Video, 15.4" TFT, 4-in-1 Memory Reader, XPHome (Factory Loaded)

Part # AV6130H1-01 Serial # NC02CU040500390
Audio Input Type Microphone
Brand Averatec
Display Max. Resolution 1280 x 800
Display Tech XGA TFT Active Matrix

Graphic Processor ATI MOBILITY RADEON 9600
Manufacturer Part Number AV6130H101
Modem Type Fax / Modem
Processor Manufacturer Intel
Processor Type Pentium 4
RAM Technology DDR SDRAM


Audio
Audio Input Type Microphone
Dimensions
Depth 10.6 in.
Height 1.4 in.
Weight 7.7 lb.
Width 14.1 in.
Display
Display Size 15.4 in.
Key Features
Display 15.4 in. XGA TFT Active Matrix
Installed Memory 512 MB (DDR SDRAM)
Operating System Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
Processor Intel Pentium 4 3 GHz
Memory
Installed RAM 512 MB
Max Supported RAM 1024 MB
Memory
RAM Speed 333 MHz
Miscellaneous
Input Method Keyboard, Touchpad
MPN av6130h101

Networking
Data Link Protocol Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, IEEE 802.11g
Networking Type Integrated 10/100, Integrated Wireless LAN
Processor
Processor Speed 3 GHz
Technical Features
Expandability 1 x Type I/II PC Card Slot
Video
Installed Video Memory 64 MB

[glc]

See if it will boot up in safe mode, then do a system restore back to when it was working right.

[briley]

Done and done. Thanks, glc. You saved me again.