Computer Issue On My Laptop

I've had Windows 10 on my Dell laptop ever since I got it in 2015.

A couple weeks ago I noted that the time did not change to Standard so went in and changed that. Now when I log on I do not get the regular screen with my links on dislay etc. I get some different thing that is usable..sort of. I cannot open up and play any games without them taking super long.

So I thought, OK I'll just go in and change it. Cannot. I get a mighty brief vision of my old screen when logging on; Any suggestions how to get that view on a permanent basis?

Note- if this ought to go elsewhere, please reposition.

Ask here for advice
discussion forum
windows
windows 10 discussion (3rd line down)
https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum/10

OK,thanks. I've been looking for some minor routine fix on my system. This feels like some routine thing to be corrected with a simple click. It may be related to an update of a few days or so ago. Going to wait and see if anone can suggest some minor adjustment.

You shall find that link extremely helpful.
My "go to" place for IT problems.

If I recall, there have been update problems posted recently,
you need to do some reading

TIP : be precise with the thread topic name if you post
"computer problem" will not cut it.

Sounds like your home page has been hijacked. In your search box type in Internet Properties and then see what it says for your home page. Try and change it to your original home page. If that does not work then you have been hijacked and that will require some additional work to eliminate the virus/hijacking.

Do you use system restore ? if you set a prior date for your system to backdate to - do it soon. I commonly use this if a microsh*& update goes sideways.

I agree. This is typically one of my 'easy' 'fixes'. Just because Microsoft says an update is a good thing, doesn't necessarily mean an update is a good thing.

If you are talking about your desktop and the shortcut icons, right-click on the desktop, select view and make sure the "Show desktop icons" option is checked.

If your programs are taking longer to load, open the Task Manager and see which programs are hogging the resources (memory, CPU, disk).

I must confess, I am a bit of a slow learner

Finally took PostmasterGS' advice, and pinned my "Notepad" Icon to the task bar.

I can now type and proof read any long post, prior to pasting to SCF,
It was rather simple. Works a treat.