Safari and firefox won't launch and explorer opens but won't load correctly

Question

Hi
Something weird is happening to our emac!
Got home yesterday after a few days away and all the apple aps have stopped working
Safari and itunes won't launch at all - they just bounce a couple of times in the dock - then nothing.
Firefox won't launch either - the only browser I can get to launch is explorer - and that won't load properly.
I've tried the software update - it says there's now software - but 'unexpectedly' quits if i try to download anything.
In desperation overnight I re-installed the software from the software restore discs - but this morning it's no better.
I saw a thread earlier that suggested that rogue fonts might be to blame - which could be something because the only page that loads in explorer displays strangely with the fonts all over the place.
Any advice that someone could give would be much appreciated
thanks x

Answer 1

HI,
*"In desperation overnight I re-installed the software from the software restore discs - but this morning it's no better."*
Better check the startup disk for errors.
Insert Installer disk and Restart, holding down the "C" key until grey Apple appears.
Go to Installer menu and launch Disk Utility.
Select your HDD (manufacturer ID) in the left panel.
Select First Aid in the Main panel.
(Check S.M.A.R.T Status of HDD at the bottom of right panel. It should say: Verified)
Click Repair Disk on the bottom right.
If DU reports disk does not need repairs quit DU and restart.
If DU reports errors Repair again and again until DU reports disk is repaired.
When you are finished with DU, from the Menu Bar, select Utilities/Startup Manager.
Select your start up disk and click Restart
While you have the Disk Utility window open, look at the bottom of the window. Where you see Capacity and Available. Make sure there is always 10% to 15% free disk space.
If you cannot boot from your install disk, try booting in Safe Mode
What is Safe Mode
Carolyn