Computer Learning

[Cassandra]

Is this the board where really smart computer geeks help the hopelessly (almost) tech-impaired?

If so, then I have a problem to ask you about. (Well, actually, I have a lot of problems, but this is probably the only one in which smart computer guys can help)

I got some advice on the RB SUGG board, but thought I'd check with any "experts" here, because I'm about to try the solutions they recommended.

My MS Word program is corrupted (so is Access, which I don't use, and Publisher). MS Excel and most of my other programs are still working. I'm running Win 98 and using Office 97. Plenty of space left on 20 gb hd and 128 mg RAM. I use a cable modem. McAfee virus scan detects no viruses.

Several days ago, MS Word started freezing up on me, stating that my system resources were dangerously low. A couple of days later, I couldn't open it at all. I closed all of the non-essental programs that were running and monitored system resources. Twice I was able open it if I caught it a low point in system resources use, but in the last few days, I can't open it not matter what I do. It just freezes the whole computer, and it's Ctrl-Alt-Delete time.

I still have the original installation CD for Office, and have been advised to first try reinstalling Word over the old program. I have only few critical data files backed up on a CD, but have a VERY large number of Word data (.doc) files stored in about 50 folders.

If the reinstall doesn't work, it was suggested that I uninstall my old Word program and then reinstall it. But, do I need to back-up all of my .doc files then?

Also, I am not upgraded to the SE version of Win 98, is that important?

Thanks a lot for any compassionate advice to a non-techie (and yes, a girl).