Probably a simple computer query!

[Vooble]

My computer took ages to start up today, and when it did it was like I hadn't ever used it- my Outlook wasn't set up for me, Microsoft programs weren't registered in my name and short cut icons & wallpaper I'd arranged weren't there.

Thankfully, I don't think I have actually lost any programs.

I did a virus check, and it came out all-clear.

Any suggestions as to why this happened and what I should do? If it's relevent, I recently changed providers.

[Kerplunk]

Does anyone else have access to your computer? It sounds like your profile was deleted.

[Vooble]

Nobody else has access.

[rojash]

What operating system are you using?

98 will let you login with a new login name and automatically create a new profile.

I had one client who always clicked "Cancel" at the login screen and never had a problem. One day he clicked "OK" instead (or whatever - it's a long time ago!) and it logged him in as a new user with the default background, icons etc.

The fact that it took a long time to boot implies that it was creating a new profile.

[huge piles]

try checking out admin tools in control panel... it may show that 2 accounts now exist...

[Vooble]

Thank you for your responses.

I am using XP, and there is no other account created.