Over time, our computers can get clogged up with viruses and spyware and registry problems. Oh yeah. All hail the windows registry. Not.
First a little background:
Windows XP/Vista is based on a system called the "Registry." This is essentially a database of all the software on your computer, where it is stored, and any information that software may need.
Unfortunately, it's not a perfect system - not by a long shot. As you install programs, uninstall, delete, add, etc... the registry can get confused.
For instance... It thinks you have a program installed at location X and you move the program to location Y. Well, the computer still thinks the program is at X because that's what the Registry is telling it to think.
Similar problems creep up with desktop shortcuts, file extensions, ActiveX/COM controls - and the like. It can be a REAL mess.
There are ways to fix the problem, thankfully. My personal favorite is called simply "registry fix." You can scan your computer for free and fix any problems that it finds. You have to be careful about picking just any fixer - especially free fixers because they can cause more trouble than they fix. - just a caveat.
registry fix does come with a reasonable price tag of $37, but to avoid losing data and countless memories, it is worth it!
I encourage you to check it out. It's saved me from several disasters in the few months that I've had it!
