20 Feb, 2010 ~ after installing latest MS security update and performing mandatory reboot, windows XP-SP3 will not restart. Displays Dell splash screen then msg "Loading PBR 2... Done" then hangs. I do not know the MS update number as I cannot access the machine, but this has happened three times in the last week. Only recovery I've found that works is to do a full restore of the harddrive (using Acronis). Have seen other forum responses recommending to restart XP from CD, start the recovconsole and run the FIXMBR command, however Dell do not provide Windows XP startup disks so this is not an option for me (and some forum users have said it didn't work them anyway).Unless I hear otherwise, when the current restore is complete, I intend to turn off automatic updates until I get clear confirmation this problem is resolved.2 people need an answerI do too

Start a free Windows Update support incident request - https://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?gprid=6527 Support for Windows Update - http://support.microsoft.com/gp/wusupport For home users, no-charge support is available by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY (and/or 1-866-234-6020 and/or 1-800-936-5700) in the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated with security updates. When you call, clearly state that your problem is related to a Security Update and cite the update's KB number (e.g., KB977165). (Thanks to MVP PA Bear for this information.) If you are not in the United States or Canada, there are local support contact numbers here: http://support.microsoft.com/common/international.aspx MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!