JRosenfeld

No don't click on the IE icon on the menu that opens when you right click/open with. At the bottom of that menu there is an option Choose program. Click on that. A second window opens. Select IE there and check the box at the bottom of that window 'always use....' then click OK

Autopatcher will downloadall post XP SP3 updates. You can put them on CD or USB stick. It will install ones you select. It also provides links to the KB article so you can check whether you want or need any one. It updates regularly. http://www.autopatcher.com/ Autopatcher users forum: http://www.autopatcher.com/forums/index.php?act=idx

Try reassociating: right click on the file, click open with, click choose program, select IE, check the box always use,...click OK

Except for this one: C:\WINDOWS\$hf_mig$ That one is essential or you'll break XP.

Is the Plug an Play service set to automatic and started?

Right click on the taskbar. If Lock the Taskbar is checked, click on it to uncheck it it. Then put you cursor on the >> at the end of the quicklaunch bar and drag to the right until it is fully expanded (the >> changes to a |). Relock the tasbar if you wish.