Just like many laptops you don't have a full Vista DVD so your repair options are very limited. Many forget the FIRST STEP in repairing this OS. Ready.
1. Backup the files we can't lose.
The moderators in unison -> "We only lose what we don't backup."
Ok, with that out of the way step 2 from Grif.
2. Read and do what Grif advises at http://forums.cnet.com/5208-6121_102-0.html?threadID=378815&tag=forums06;forum-threads
3. The lack of the service pack after this many years is a sign. Not a good one. After step 2, try Windows Update and let it run.
4. Be sure to set aside a few days for scans and updates.
5. Or just reload it with the factory DVDs.
Bob
Machine is an emachines w5233, running 32-bit Windows Vista with no service packs. I am trying to fix this pc for a friend, who says that it has not worked properly for around a year. I am not sure if this is virus, spyware, etc. related, but there are a lot of weird things going on. On start up, I get one BIOS beep. I cannot boot into normal mode, it just goes to a black screen with an unmovable cursor. In safe mode, I keep getting "IE is not working" windows errors, not sure if these are related in any way. I downloaded malwarebytes to see if any of these problems are spyware/malware related, but it will not open after installation. Whenever I click on the icon, the cursor spins as if loading but soon stops. I also cannot update Mcafee virus protection; whenever I try to update the virus definitions, it gives me an error saying "One or more errors are preventing update", and then does nothing.If anyone has any input, it would be very appreciated.I don't know if all or any of these issues are related, but the fact that programs won't work and that I can only boot into safe mode is troubling. Thanks in advance!

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