What would cause a folder to just close?

Question

Alright so I am posting this with more info.

I recently downloaded a file from a website into my downloads folder and now when I open that folder that window completely closes and it is impossible to navigate through that folder. I have windows XP SP2 I need the things in that folder and I don't want to reformat completely..Any help?

Answer 1

Reboot your computer and press f8 before it completely starts up you should then be able to choose to boot up your computer in safe mode. Boot up in safe mode and then the folder should stay up, delete that file you downloaded. Before you reboot do a virus scan. After that reboot your computer regularly and then the folder should be working properly again.

Answer 2

it depends what this 'file' is as to how it's affected your system. is it a *.exe file that you've ran? a video file, and the folder is in 'view thumbnails' view?