i cant think of anything that would cause this problem besides maybe a incorrect registry setting maybe?

have you installed anything to tweak ie?

I'd say the same thing... never heard of anything quite like that...

I get the error message sometimes, and all my IE windows shut down (usually after I've spent alot of time on a forum post, and hit submit without copying the text to the clipboard), but I can open as many as I want until then... like the times I get really bent out of shape, and click the IE quick-launch shortcut 50 times !!! LOL

just off the top of my head,go to tools /advanced/and reset defaults.
if nothing changes ,then try a IE repair
http://support.microsoft.com/default...;EN-US;q318378

I have the exact same problem that just started a week ago for no apparent reason. I can only open ONE explorer window in XP Pro using a shortcut icon. All subsequent attempts to open windows result in the error report message. I can use the one window indefinitely, however.
I didn't install any new software or updates when the problem arose. I think it must be a hijacker or virus, but neither Norton or AdAware come up with any leads.
I have found a work-around to open multiple windows. I can use CTRL-N to open as many windows as I want with no errors! I don't get it, but it'll work till I find a cure.

Have you guys tried deleting the shortcut and then recreating it? What if you recreate it (temporarily) in a different directory on your hard drive?

I have a similar problem - for no apparent reason I can only have one window open in XP - complete pain.

I NEED HELP!!!!!!! I can only open one internet explorer like everyone else but when i try to open up another internet explorer it just opens up a new one and loads up my home page like if you were opening up a new internet explorer and mine doesnt bring up an error message though :rolleyes: someone please help me and tell me what i need to do it is frustraiting. :evil:

These mightn't help or you may have done them, but they're quick and simple to try...

1. Right-click on the link you want to open and click on "Open in new window" in the pop-up menu.

2. Shift-click on the link.

3. Tools > Internet Options > Advanced tab > Browse section > uncheck "Reuse windows for launching shortcuts."

This is an adware. Delete any file using the name winshow (usually a dll). good luck.