Can't Delete an Icon on the Desktop - HELP!

[HeavyHauler]

Well I trust you guys with my truck so why not with my computer?



I've got an icon that I cannot delete on my desktop. When I try to delete it, it says that another person or applicaton is using the program. It's an icon for a software demo that connects to the internet to download the program when you open it.



It doesn't contain a virus or anything like that. I've tried closing all open applications but this darn Windows XP is much more compicated that 98. I used to have a program that showed every single program that was running but don't anymore.



What can I do to get rid of this thing? It's driving me crazy!



Thanks!

 

[dhill]

You might try to restore to a date when you know it wasn't there. Go to the start button and go to help and support. The instructions will be there. I've done that before. I sure the experts will chime in soon.



Dave

 

[guava]

Something is probably using the ICON like you suspect. You've tried looking for the running programs... (Right idea)



Try starting the computer in safe-mode. F8 during the boot up or look for the line at the bottom of the screen that says if you are having trouble with windows, hit *** key



at the menu, choose safe mode. Get the computer up and running. Delete the icon. restart normally.



If that doesn't work, post what the icon is and the name of the program that put it there... . we can figure it out

 

[HeavyHauler]

That didn't work either. Good idea though.



I thought I knew how to do most everything on these machines but this one has me stumped.



Any other computer wizards out there?

 

[guava]

what is the icon and where did it come from

 

[HeavyHauler]

I Did It!

Well I don't know why this worked, but it did. I opened the recycle bin and then dragged the icon into it - the empty command worked and the file is gone! I don't get it, but I accept it!



Thanks guys.

 

[rkressg]

Download a program called ccleaner available from www.ccleaner.com. It is a registry cleaning program that also perminately deletes temp junk from your computer.

-Rich