Compaq 7465 running W98SE problem free for many months since installation of new HD. Suddenly refusing to shut down. When told to shut down, active desktop (with kid's photo) goes away leaving the standard blue background with the Compaq logo (that's normal so far) but then freezes at that point. Problem is consistent for about 20 attempts over a few days. When frozen, the double three-finger salute usually results in a black screen with the HD still spinning, but 2 or 3 times resulted in a BSOD. Regardless, only way to shut down is using the power button. Start-ups are completely normal every time.
Everything else seemingly OK.. Have not done anything knowingly stupid or added any programs or hardware. I'm current on all protective stuff, AVG, Spybot, AdAware, etc. and have run them with no issues whatsoever. Just did an uneventful ScanDisk and a Defrag. Searched around here at BC and based on that, ran MSCONFIG to verify that 'Disable Fast Shutdown' was checked in Advanced Troubleshooting Settings (it was checked, don't remember why or when I did that some time ago, but have never had a shutdown problem before).

Windows 98 Shutdown Patch Download Windows 10

Hoping this does not portend something really nasty. I really prefer lurking here than begging for help.

1. Sep 05, 2018  Although Microsoft never released a service pack for Windows 98 SE, this is a pack of patches available through the online Windows Update site.
2. Page 1 of 2 - Won't Shut Down - posted in Windows 95/98/ME: Compaq 7465 running W98SE problem free for many months since installation of new HD. Suddenly refusing to shut down.

Windows 98 Shutdown Patch

A collection Win98 sites for upgrading and fixing. Free Answers-- Ask questions about Microsoft and Adobe products. Newsgroup Help-- Trouble-shooting threads from Win98 and Win95 newsgroup discussions, Dr Suess Manual. Windows 98 Sites.