Hi, I was recently installing a new update to my computer, it is the servicepack 2 I had avoided for some time but heard it was safe and I'v installed all the other updates we are prompted for.. so I went aheah and started it and instaling it. Not sure this caused the problem... but the computer in the middle of installation and I had to do a hard shutdown. When I rebooted the computer the only thing that came up was all these weird colorful symbols, like upside question marks, etc. HELP! I can't even get to where I could start in safe mode, it goes right to the weird symbols on black background and nothing, nothing works
I have two hard drives on the computer and XP for os. I have all the virus scanners, etc, so don't think its a virus but haven't really updated it lately.

sam
ssepulveda@wmca.org

I just joined but didnt see my post make the list.. so just checking...

Have you tried a system restore?

Does your BIOS POST run?

If so tapping F8 doesn't bring up Safe Options?

If not you will need your installation or recovery CD.

Is your XP OEM or did you install it? What disks do you have?

The SP2 download will shut down immediately if an attack on your computer is detected. This is a safety measure. I know it is a bore, but you would be safer if you did a complete XP format and re-install. Ensure you have activated the XP firewall and have an anti virus program. You must download the 20 or so security patches first and as the SP2 download can take a long time (unless you have high speed ADSL) I would suggest using the free SP2 CD which has been available on magazine covers. System restore is very flaky and the slightest changes can cause refusal to restore.

Thanks for everyone who responded. I did end up having to do a restore which worked.

Prior to that though, tapping the F8 did not bring up the safe mode option.

Thanks again.
sam