My computer(98se) locks up on starting. It loads the desktop and most of the icons in the start tray and then freezes. The cursor is displayed with the hourglass but will not move. The only way to turn off the computer is unplugging the power supply.

So this is an ATX type system? (Turns off power on shutdown via software commands as opposed to actually pressing the power switch.)

Have you just recently loaded any new software?

When was the last time the system started OK? Within five days?

Can you start in Safe Mode?
When you first start the system, when the POST screen (Power On Self Test) comes up, start tapping the Ctrl key. You have to be quick. You should get the MS Startup Menu. Choose safe mode.

If you get into Windows, right click on My Computer, choose Properties, then click on the Device Manager tab. Are there any yellow exclamation marks on any devices?