[Moff3]

On occasions, my HP Laptop running XP will screen freeze as I attempt to access a program from my Desktop shortcut. Program Not Responding is displayed. To get out from this, I have to shut the computer down!! I need to know the cause and how to fix. I thank you in anticipation as in the past the positive responses have been quick and appreciated. Cheers. Moff3

[TexMexAlex]

Does this happen to all the programs you have or only the ones you know? Do you have an anti-virus, and anti-malware software? If No, You will need to download AVG (Anti-Virus) here and Malwarebytes (Anti-Malware) here. Chances are you are infected or program not installed correctly or something wrong with the program. If it is only some or one that is not responding what is the software called?

[Moff3]

I have Avast, Bootvis, Regcure and Spybot which were all recommended to me. It is only some of the downloaded programmes that are giving trouble and only recently, as I have had them all for some time and trouble free. Do you recommend Malwarebytes as a download?

[vicks]

Personally, I suggest that you remove Regcure (any registry cleaner/optimizer can do more damage than good to a system).
As of right now, Malwarebytes is recognized as one of the best anti malware/antispyware programs available. Also SuperAntispyware is also very good to be run . (I use both programs on our computers). Spybot used to be very good but is not as good as it used to be, especially if you are using the Tea Timer, also it uses a lot of resources on the computer.
I also use Zone Alarm firewall. Several people here have been recommending Microsoft Essentials, I have not tried it yet.
It is best to use only one anti virus and one firewall because multiple of each can cause conflict. Multiple anti malware/spyware is okay/.
Happy Computing.
Vicks

[Moff3]

I thank you for that. I have deleted Spybot and Regcure, and installed Malwarebytes. A quick scan found six problems, so over a period of time the "proof will be in the Pudding". Cheers.

[vicks]

You are welcome... I would encourage you to d/l and run the SuperAntiSpyware program too. (available free at www.,majorgeeks,.com). Update both programs and then run them in safe mode. It is amazing how junk can be hiding in our systems. Also, be sure your anti virus is kept updated. I run each program weekly,.
Vicks

[Moff3]

Done! Thank you.

[vicks]

Glad you have had success !!!!
vicks

[Moff3]

I have tried to back up my contact list in OUTLOOK EXPRESS by clicking on "ADDRESSES"> EDIT > SELECT ALL > COPY. when I go to paste on a word document the screen freezes and program "Not Responding". Have also tried one address at a time, with the same result!! Is this a result of Malware or another problem that I have encountered? Cheers.

[vicks]

In OE click on file>import/export> to send addresses click on export and choose where you want them sent.
Vicks