Program Files Missing: START > PROGRAM

[Jerry Pownall]

When I click START > PROGRAMS, I used to have 30 to 40 folders and programs listed; now I only have 8.  All the programs are still available, I just have create shortcuts for my desktop, or go to Program Files and select the appropriate .exe file.

Also, I've noticed that when I go to the Control Panel and click on Administrative Tools, the Administrative Tools window pops up, but it is empty.  I think the two problems are related.

HELP!

[Raptor]

Scan for viruses, trojans and Spyware.

[JPa]

Raptor,  Thanks for the reply about my Programs list problem.  I did have some virus/worm problems, but they have all been resolved.  How do I get the program list back?

Jerry

[Raptor]

What operating system does this concern?

What kind of viruses were you infected with?  

[JPa]

I have XP Pro.  I had several viruses and worms.  Korgo was the main one.

[Raptor]

You may be able to repair your Windows XP by using the Window XP Pro CD as a bootdisk.

I donot know how else you would be able to replace the files.

[JPa]

The OS and computer work fine.  The symptoms described in my original post seem to be the only problems.

[Raptor]

You will most likely not get your Start Folders back. They were created by the programs and are not native to Windows.

As for your Administrator functions, I donot see these in Xp Home. So I cannot quite help you with that.

But are you certain they have not been empty before?

[JPa]

No, they have not always been empty.  I can still get to the tools, I just have to right click on My Computer, and all the functions are still available.

[Raptor]

if I were you I'd take a look at the repair option on your Windows XP Pro CD. Use it as a bootdisk by setting the CD-ROM as your first boot device in  the BIOS.