Recently, when I click on the Start button at lower left, the menu that pops up will only show Run, Help and Support, Search, Settings, Documents, Programs, then the horizontal line above which there are supposed to be about a half-dozen application shortcuts and the Show Desktop icon. Problem is, it gets no further that the line. Sometimes I can wait five or so seconds and the items of the line will populate. Other times, I have to start over and re-click Start. Sometimes more than once. Any clues on what's going on?1 person needs an answerI do too

Hi okieseeker,· Did you make any software or hardware changes on your machine prior to this issue?· How long you have been facing this issue?Let’s follow these methods and check if it helps.Method 1You may boot the computer into ‘safe mode’ and check if the issue persists. It will start Windows XP with a limited set of files and drivers. Startup programs do not run in safe mode, and only the basic drivers needed to start Windows are installed, follow the steps to boot the computer in safe mode:a. Restart the computer.b. Start tapping F8 key.c. You will get advanced boot option window.d. Select the option “Safe mode”.For more information, refer this link:A description of the Safe Mode Boot options in Windows XPMethod 2a) I would also recommend you to run an online virus scan from the link given below & check if the issue persists. http://onecare.live.com/site/en-nz/default.htm?mkt=en-nzAdditionally, make sure that you have the latest update for the antivirus software installed on your machine, so that it works properly.b) If you do not have any antivirus installed,you may also download & run Microsoft Security Essentials on your machine. Hope the information helps. Please post back and let us know.RegardsDebleena SMicrosoft Answers Support EngineerVisit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.