when selecting start/search - no options for select appear

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

I have a Dell Optiplex 280 with Windows XP-Pro installed, latest updates
minus SR-2.

Suddenly, when I go to start/search nothing happens. The computer actually
sort of freezes - the mouse still moves but there is nothing that can be done
with the computer for about 60 sec. The search function will not appear.

Also, why trying to access webmail accounts, either mail.<domain name>.com
or yahoo or aol, the mail shows but when trying to open mail nothing happens.

There are no pop-up blockers, no virus'

Cleaned up temp/temporary internet files/cookes. Still nothing.

Any thoughts ?