start button frozen

[muso512]

Hi ! Can anyone help me with a problem i am having with my laptop? The Start button doesnt respond, and in fact anything that is right at the bottom of the screen [taskbar] doesnt work. all progs work fine, but if i minimize a page, then i cant restore it as nothing responds. also, i cant use Start > Turn off computer and i have to physically switch it off. Thanks in advance.

[Calum]

What happened before this started?
What version of Windows do you have?
What protection do you have?

Welcome to computerhope.

[muso512]

Thanks. I have windows XP and no protection cos i dont use the laptop on the net. i was converting some of my CDs to the ipod format for me to listen to on the ipod.

[Calum]

How about if you press the Windows key?
Does the start menu open then?
And can you use Alt-Tab to switch between windows?

[muso512]

The windows key wouldnt work initially, but i kept trying it and also tried Start;after a while, it got unfrozen! Many thanks 

[Calum]

Glad you got it sorted.
If the issue persists, please post back and we'll help you again.

[patio]

Thanks. I have windows XP and no protection cos i dont use the laptop on the net.

Protection would still be a good idea although you are at much less risk.