Question : Desktop freezes; iexplore process still running

Hello,
I have a desktop pc that randomly locks up the desktop. New windows can be opened via rightclick<start> explore, but not from desktop shortcuts. Task manager can be accessed.
The iexplore process is listed as running even though no internet explorer windows are open. It appears that the process does not terminate completely after exiting internet explorer as terminating this process frees the desktop and the user can continue.
Any ideas on why this behaviour has started recently.
Scans show no malware.
Cheers,
David.

Answer : Desktop freezes; iexplore process still running

The problem was not resolved for SharePoint2010.