BleepingComputer.com: XP Service Pack 2 just installed - now taskbar missing!

So basically I've had this problem before (last night actually) - so I did a system restore and everything was fine. Over the last 24 hours I downloaded all of the XP updates from MS and finally I got to the point where I downloaded SP2 - I did that, clicked the install button, and went out for the night. Upon returning I have 2 problems that are happening: 1. My taskbar is gone and any minimized programs just sit on the desktop as opposed to going to the taskbar. I've tried the ctrl+esc option to no avail and I've also read through about 20 different posts on this site, watched multiple youtube videos, and have come to the conclusion that I may have more problems than just the taskbar missing. 2. I have no sound.

This is the same issue I ran into months ago before I stopped using this pc - I just turned it on again for the first time in 4 or 5 months last night and instead of doing a fresh format of my system I just used system restore. I now assume that these problems are ingrained in my system and I'm asking you for help. I'd run programs but I've read so many READ THIS FIRST articles on here that I'm completely unsure of what to do. I know that it's important that I only run programs when told so I'm basically waiting for your advice before I even start anything.

Thank you for your time.

Do you have a copy of SP3? SP2 is really quite old, and you don't need it to upgrade to SP3.

I don't. Should I download it now? I mean I can ctrl+alt+del to get to programs but I can't use the taskbar because.. it isn't there. Do you think the upgrade to SP3 will fix my taskbar/sound issues?

Can you see any desktop icons?

System manufacturer and model?

Louis

If this is the same system where you opened a malware topic, http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/topic293079.html, then I suggest that you send a PM to Schrauber and let him know that you are ready to pursue the issues discussed in that post.

This post has been edited by hamluis: 30 September 2010 - 08:57 AM

When you run the program Explorer.exe does your taskbar come back? Also, looking at your malware post, it looks as if you do indeed have a malware infection. Please have that post reopened or start a new thread. Either way, post your current logs again.

Lets get your computer disinfected and then work on these other issues.

Gabrial, on Sep 30 2010, 03:37 AM, said:

More importantly, as of last July Microsoft is no longer supporting Windows XP unless you have SP3.

Yeah I can see the recycle bin. But that's the only icon I like to have on the desktop anyway.

Thanks for the head's up on the malware issue. I just turned this thing off until now and will try to get it reopened. Thanks again!

Since you have an open malware thread which you are going to attend to...this thread is now closed.

In the event that you want it reopened once your potential malware issues are eliminated from consideration...just send a PM to me or any Mod and we will reopen it if the same issues still pertain.

This thread is now closed.

Louis