I seconed trying system restore to a period before all this started.
Did you update any drivers recently or have anything set to auto-update?
It's most likely unrelated but do a full virus and spyware scan
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--To every problem, there is a solution (other than death, of course
). So, just smile!!.....okay that's a load of crap but you already know that. 3 years and still fighting!!
Systems:
- Modified Mac Mini: 2GHz Core Duo, 2GB RAM, 100GB 7200RPM HD, Dual-Boot Mac & XP
- HP Tablet PC TC1100: 1.1GHz Centrino, 1GB RAM, 60GB 7200RPM HD, Vista Ultimate