Problems with XP and/or IE6

"Nick" <me@dontspam> wrote in message
news:ubMiGpP7IHA.3696@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
> This is cross posted, I hope that will be acceptable.
>
> This pc runs on XP SP2. OE6 & IE7. Updates downloaded automatically but
> only installed when I choose. None outstanding.
>
> I don't know if the problem is with the pc, with XP, OE or IE, the problem
> started a few days ago.
>
> Search for a file/folder:
> Start > search > find all: Window appears saying 'a file that is required
> to run search companion cannot be found. You may need to run setup.
>
> When trying to print an email, I get a pop up saying 'Internet
> explorer.script error. An error has occurred in the script on this page'.
> I cannot close that pop up page and cannot print the mail. I can
> copy/paste text into word and print.
>
> Cannot access restore points. No messages or pop ups, nothing at all.
>
> Cannot open device manager or event viewer. Any attempt brings up a
> message about MMC console.
>
> I use both antivirus and firewall s/w. My router settings are quite
> robust.
>
> This is a family pc and I really don't want to format/re-install
> everything unless I really have to.
>
> Any suggestions please?
> Is a repair installation of X likely to be of any assistance?
>
> Many thanks.
>