When Windows Will Not Start Properly!

If Windows will not start properly, you may be able to start Windows in "Safe Mode" to try to correct the problem. To start Windows in Safe Mode, you must log on using a computer administrator account. Windows automatically creates this account that you can use if your own account is unavailable.

To get into Safe Mode turn on your computer and monitor, immediately press and hold down the F8 key. The Windows Advanced Options Menu appears, displaying a list of options for starting Windows. To Start Windows in Safe Mode press the arrow-down or the arrow-up key until you highlight Safe Mode. Then press the "Enter" key. Windows asks you to select the operating system you want to start. Use the up and down key until you highlight your operating system and press "Enter". Now the Windows Welcome screen appears. Click on the account you want to use in Safe Mode. A dialog appears stating that Windows is running in Safe Mode. Click "Yes" to continue. Note that Safe Mode uses only the minimum capabilities to run Windows so some hardware devices (printers, modems, sound cards, and some types of mice) may not be available when you start in Safe Mode.

In Safe Mode, try reversing the action that may have caused the problem that is preventing Windows from starting properly. If you have just installed a new program, then try uninstalling that program. You can also use the "System Restore" feature to return you computer to a time before the problem occurred. (All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, System Restore).

If you're still not sure how to fix the problem, you can start your computer using the "Last Known Good Configuration" option. This option allows you restore the settings Windows used the last time your computer started successfully. When you finish fixing the problem that prevented Windows from starting normally, restart your computer.

Now, wasn't that a lot easier and cheaper than calling in a computer service person?

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Close Down A Misbehaving Program

When a program fails to respond to mouse or keyboard actions, Windows will generally identify the program that is misbehaving, or you may discover the program for yourself.

To close a misbehaving program, press and hold down the "Ctrl" and "Alt" keys as you press the "Delete" key. (This key combination is laughingly called "The Three-Fingered Salute). The Windows Task Manager window appears. Click on the "Applications" tab. The menu that appears lists the programs that are currently running. The phrase "Not Responding" appears beside the name of the misbehaving program. Highlight this program and then click"End Task" near the bottom of the page. The "End Program" dialog box appears stating that the program is not responding. Click "End Now" to close the program. Close the Task Manager's window.

Note that when you close a program that is not responding, you will lose any information that you did not save in the program. Closing a misbehaving program should not affect the operation of Windows or any other program you have open.

This is a really handy tip to learn and with the tendency of Windows programs to freeze for no apparent reason, it's something you might use quite a bit.

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