Suddenly when I double click on an icon (IE for example) it displays the small properties box, but the icons won't open their regular window. Also, the start window only opens for a quick flash, as does right clicking any icon....just a quick flash then nothing.

Rebooting doesn't help, neither does changing out the keyboard or mouse.

What do I do next?

Thanks!

Bill,
Try rebooting into Safe Mode.
Are you on WinXP?
If so, you could then restore to a previous good state.
Also, have you added any new programs or updates lately?
This is the most likely cause of your problem unless youve done something to corrupt Windows.
Regards.

Thanks!
No new programs....funny thing, now it is allowing me to right click. Plus the start menu comes up, so i can open programs from that.

But any icon basically isn't working.

Once I get into Safe mode what do I do?

Hi Bill,
If you can get to the start menu ok, you could try rolling back your system to a restore point prior to your problem.
Start/Programs/Accessories/System Tools/System Restore.
Regards.

Also from this site:

http://www.dougknox.com/xp/file_assoc.htm

Try the fix for both .exe and .lnk