Thanks for all ur help,I could'nt even open files in safe mode,so i did a reinstall.Its ok thru i keep backups but yes i would like a machine to practise on.Im from the uk where can i get some cheap computers?(dont say auction site i dont trust them i want a cheap one from dell or a big company like that i am looking to spend around £100-£150.00 im from the uk could anyone help me look on uk sites?.Second for my virus research i am doing i want a programme that can change the icon pichures in win xp i have seen these before but cannot find them now can neone help?.