Windows Explorer seems to be missing. I found the a Short Cut in C:\Documents and Settings\Owner\Start Menu\Programs\Accessories and when I click on the Short Cut, it brings up My Documents. It is not visible in the Program Files, and I have configured the Folder Options to show All Hidden Files. Recently, I shut down the computer for the night and the next morning after booting up, three quarters of the All Programs menu was gone. I have not been successful opening any of the programs from the Programs Files. I have AVG Suite 7.5 for security and also run Threatfire. I havent figured out how to shut down the virus or syware conponents in AVG but do run Avast Home Edition 4.7 as well as Spyware Doctor weekly.

Windows explorer executable (explorer.exe) will not be in Program Files directory. you should be able to find it in C:\WINDOWS directory.

Strange. There could be a number of causes. Have you tried to "Ctl-Alt-Delete", and kill the explorer.exe process that is running? Then, from the task manager, try File->New Task(Run...), and type "c:\windows\explorer.exe"?



Did Microsoft updates install prior to shutdown? Did it take a long time to shutdown that night?

Thank you for clarifying the location of the explorer.exe file. I appreciate you taking the time to respond. Unfortunately, I need help finding a way to fix the Short Cut and open the programs missing from the "All Programs" menu. As you can see, I don't know what I'm doing, never-the-less, I am eager to learn.

If memory serves me, there were no updates that night. I did'nt notice that it took any longer to shut down as it is slow to shut down. This "event" happened last week.

In response to, have tried to"Ctrl-Alt-Delete" and kill the explorer.exe process that is running? No. I would like to learn. I can follow the second half of your directions.

When you opened the My Docs folder, you opened Explorer.
You can also type explorer in the run box.
Are you looking for Internet Explorer?
It's at:
"C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\iexplore.exe"
You sound like a good candidate for a System Restore:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/u...w_03may19.mspx

No, I am trying to find a way to open the programs and I thought Explorer might be it
I'll give System Restore a try. Thank you for your time.

Hello, cookie... if you have a desktop with icons, a task bar or Start/All programs visible then Windows Explorer is running. Internet Explorer is totally different, although some functions are similar. [I wrote a lil bit about W E to a poster named cynikal in Viruses, Nasties forum [last page of thread] to point out the basics of what it is..]
I suggest you remove one of your AV services... since you have AVG suite [paid] you could remove Avast. Anyway... you choose, but do it NOW.