Disk Wipe (zero write) the hard disk drive.
Install Windows XP cleanly.
Get it patched with the latest Service Pack (3), firewall on and antivirus
installed before ever connecting it to the Internet.
Get the hardware drivers from the manufacturer(s) support web page(s).
Get the rest of the Microsoft Updates from the
http://windowsupdate.microsoft web page.
Install the additional applications/software.

It's the only way to be sure.

Beyond that - look into replacing the userinit.exe and/or fixing its
registry entry so you can logon.

Even after it is fixed - my opinion is the same - format/start clean. The
damage is done, you may still have a root kit and/or other things causing
damage. You may not *want* to - but you are doing a disservice to whomever
owns the machine if you do not.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

Appreciate the input Shenan!!!

And since accessing the registry w/o actually having the unit up and
running is something that's out of my league, I guess I will take your advice
and do a new install to play it safe like u advised. Thank U Much. Wayne B.