chas53, I apologize if my post was too confusing or didn't come across right.
I DO suggest doing the System File Check, and then, if needed the "re-install" IE steps I gave you.
I've never seen a problem with these.
Before doing a registry edit, I DO suggest making sure you have a backup plan.
If you prefer, wait until other SF experts agree with me, or give you better advice.
Beyond that:
You are "right on" in your concerns and questions...
It's great you question before doing something you're not sure of, and make matters worse.
"DavidW7ncus I must say that looks so far above my head. I would have to go really slow. and assume I know nothing. if this is not precise step by step, one wrong move and I would be lost and stuck."
Understood. We all start learning somewhere, and it never ends...
In my opinion the SF tutorials are very detailed, thought out, tested, and thourogh.
If you have any questions or issues with them you can post questions.
The "Tutorial Owner/Author", and other members will reply and help...
"my computer guy told me to never do restore because it messes stuff up."
He probably has a reason for saying this, but "restore" can mean many different things...
Is it a "Restore Point", "System Image", "Registry restore", "Data restore",...
Why does he say this?
My "comfort" is knowing restoring a
system image works!
Guess i should spend more time testing
restore points so I can have confidence in them.
"but maybe you know better than him. I know that he is not right about everything."
I certainly don't know everything, and may be wrong about anything.
I don't know your "computer guy" and don't want to come across as a "know it all", sounding like he is wrong and I AM RIGHT.
There are a many others on this forum with a lot more knowledge than me...
We are all human...