When I minimize a file, it does not clear the desktop. The file stays on the desktop after it is closed or minimized. For example, IE 8 will be open, then Outlook Express will appear on top of that, then MS Word will stay on top of that. I cannot clear them off the screen, and get back to just the desktop. I can close the files, and remove them from the tray at the bottom of the screen, but cannot clear what is covering the desktop.1 person needs an answerI do too

Hi Blaster6, - Do you rememeber making any recent changes to your computer between the timings when things were working fine and now? Press Windows key+D and check if all the applications are minimized and you can see the desktop. This freezing could be caused by some third party program. Place your computer in Clean boot state to identify the same. Putting your system in clean boot state helps in identifying if any third party applications or startup items are causing the issue. If yes, you may have to contact the program manufacturer for any updates or uninstall and re-install the program. Here’s the article you may refer to for steps with reference to the same. Use this link if you are using Windows XP:How to configure Windows XP to start in a "clean boot" stateNote: After troubleshooting, make sure to put the computer to start as usual as mentioned here:To configure Windows to use a Normal startup stateAfter you used the clean boot to resolve your problem, you can follow these steps to configure Windows XP to start normally. a. Click Start, and then click Run.b. Type msconfig, and then click OK. The System Configuration Utility dialog box is displayed.c. Click the General tab, click Normal Startup - load all device drivers and services, and then click OK.d. When you are prompted, click Restart to restart the computer. Regards,Divya R – Microsoft Support.Visit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.