I have Windows XP SP3 on a laptop computer. Recently when I shut it down it sticks on a black screen with a cursor and will not shut off the power. It doesn't seem to make a difference whether I choose "shut down" or "install updates and shutdown" it does the same thing. I can power down by holding the On/Off button down, but I have to do that every time.1 person needs an answerI do too

OK, first question. Do you leave any programs on when you shutdown the computer?Although, this shouldn't cause a problem normally, there's a small possibility it would.As for regards to your black screen, how long have you left you computer on with black screen?Also, do you run anytype of malware, spyware, or antivirus. Though I've never heard of a virus doing this... you never know.Answer these questions and I will get back to you after searching the forums for more answers.EDIT:Back from the forums!You wouldn't believe what I found out, it seems your problem has gone all the way back to windows 95, but that's besides the point.Anyway, check out this article FIRST:http://support.microsoft.com/kb/313290Do what it says and try to shut down your computer.If that doesn't work try this advanced troubleshooting article:http://support.microsoft.com/kb/308029/Young and Learning... Have Mercy.

The first link is unlikely to be the cause of the OP's issue. The second link is better but it would be easier for the OP to start with more basic instructions."GAT_PRA" - The First Question Of Troubleshooting: If the problem is new, what changed between the time things worked and the time they didn't?Shutdown issues are generally caused by a program and/or process that is refusing to exit gracefully. The program and/or process can be from malware or can be legitimate (such as an invasive antivirus like Norton or McAfee). If you are using a Norton or McAfee product, uninstall it and replace with a better program such as NOD32, Kasperksy, or Avast (free). The Windows Firewall is adequate for most people. Shutdown issues can also be caused by old/poorly written drivers so make sure all drivers are updated, particularly on Windows Vista and Windows 7.A.The first step is always to make sure your computer is virus/malware free.http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/page2.html#Removing_MalwareB. If the computer is virus/malware-free, drivers are current, and no Norton or McAfee programs are installed, then do clean-boot troubleshooting to see which program/process is the culprit:How to perform a clean boot in Vista and XP - http://support.microsoft.com/kb/331796 How to perform a clean boot in Windows Vista or Windows 7 - http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135 C. If you need more information, here is an excellent shutdown troubleshooter - http://www.aumha.org/win5/a/shtdwnxp.htm Standard caveat: If troubleshooting the issue is too difficult - and there is absolutely no shame in admitting this isn't your cup of tea - take the machine to a computer repair shop. This will not be your local BigComputerStore/GeekSquad type of place. Get recommendations from family, friends, colleagues.MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!