Multiple instances of application being created

XP Pro with auto updates. On opening an application, multiple instances are created. MS Outlook- 20 instances, Lotus Notes - 50 password splashscreens, Norton System Works(Pro 2003 with update subscription) - 4 instances. When I try to close one another is generated. Sometimes group close works. Ad-Aware had not been run in 2 months and 115 objects were found and removed. Maybe it is some better they were removed and on reboot. Shut down not working properly. Started yesterday when trying to open MS Word as editor in Outlook. Later seemed to hang when attempting to open a Word attachment in Notes. Both were caused by multiple instances being created. Norton Scan found no viruses.

 

Hi and welcome. Have you scanned for viruses?

You might download hijack this, SAVE TO IT'S OWN FOLDER, NOT to DESKTOP or TEMP folder, scan and post a scan log.

http://www.majorgeeks.com/download3155.html

 

I recall that Outlook had defaulted to a white font and I had to change it to auto color for each new message. I looked for a way to save it as a default and wound up messing with the normal.dot file. I believe that is where I started getting into trouble.

Norton says no virus, Ad-Aware finds nothing.

Every application generates from 17 to 50 instances. I have not been able to download anything.

I have been able to get to the control panel and remove XP Office Pro.

I want to try to re-install XP Pro to "repair". I have inserted the Windows XP Pro Upgrade version 2002 CD into the drive and restarted the machine. I can't seem to boot in Safe Mode with F8. I can get to Explorer and click on setup.exe. I get 17 instances of Windows Installation and can't get past the agreement splash screen.

 

Norton virus definitions up to date?

Can you go to this link and run a scan?



http://housecall.trendmicro.com/

 

Also, if you want to email me with your email address, I will foward you a copy of hijack this.

 

Norton up to date. Trying to get to reference site,

 

Also, received your email, hijackthis.exe sent.

Depending on your mail server, that may be blocked.....let me know.