The task bar on my windows xp goes grey?

my task bar will change from blue to grey, also my pc reboots in the middle of programs, and i have problems launching internet explorer. i have avg antivirus and anti spyware running. is this a virus etc or a hardware problem.

The task bar on my windows xp goes grey?nortin

When did this problem start happening?

If only this week try performing System Restore. Restore your computer to an earlier date

To do System Restore:

a. Click on Start

b. Click on All Programs

c. Click on Accessories

d. Click on System Tools

e. Click on System Restore

f. System Restore will open

g. Click on Restore your computer to an earlier time

h. Click on Next

i. Try to choose a date last week or days ago that you are not having this problem.

g. Just follow the prompts, Click on Next

NOTE: The computer will logoff just let the computer do the restore

Try optimizing Internet Exlorer Browser

a. Check first the version

Click Help

Click About Internet Explorer

If you are using IE7 or version 7

a. Close IE

b. Click on Start

c. Click on Control Panel

d. Open Network and Internet Connections

e. Open Internet Options

NOTE: If Network and Internet Connections is separated just try to look for Internet Options