Can You Help With Weird Desktop Behavior on XP?

XP was installed on a machine that was previously ME.

When downloading files to the desktop, the files don't appear on the user's desktop but in another desktop in documents and settings.

After installing programs, an icon appears on the user's desktop but double-clicking the icon gives an error message. If you navigate to the icon in Program Files and double-click on that icon the program works. Copying that icon to the user's desktop and double-clicking on the copied icon works.

If you delete an icon from the desktop it becomes inaccessible but it still appears on the desktop. Refreshing the view removes the icon. Why isn't the desktop immediately refreshed after deleting?

I am suspicious that someone dragged and dropped something where it doesn't belong. There appear to be no viruses.

Should I reinstall the OS (repair) or is there another solution?

 

Was this an upgrade or a clean install?

 

Thanks.

It was an upgrade.

 

Well others may have a solution for this, but personally I would do a format and remove any possible lingering part of ME and reinstall XP.

 

Try creating a new user account. Then logging into that new user account. Do you still have issues?

 

That's the best idea. Backup any data you need first.