what would cause my mouse pointer to sometimes move around a inch or so on its own. i am using xp pro service pack 2.Could it be a virus?

I don't have an answer for you but I saw this happen on a co-worker's computer yesterday. She just shut down everything and re-booted and all was fine.

I wanted to offer you some suggestions that might help with the mouse situation in case re-booting does not.

First of all, is it a wireless mouse? If so, replace the batteries. Also check for interference. You should also clean the mouse. And if the mouse is attached to the cable then check your connections. Also, the cable might be bad. Wiggle the cable where it connects to the mouse. If the mouse pointer moves, then the cable is probably bad.

Good suggestions from Geogia. Another thought...is there any vibration near the mouse? Enough that it might be the cause of the mouse movement?

Dwight

Thanks for the ideas,have checked all and it still does it.Its weird it only does it in certain sites when i am online,yahoo is one of them.I think i am going to try a new mouse.Thanks again for the responses

Before buying a new mouse, give this a try.

1) Click the Start Button
2) Go to the Control Panel
3) Open the "Mouse" applet
4) Look at what options are checked in the "Pointer Options" tab.
5) Any that you don't understand, click the Question Mark in the upper right corner, then click the item. It will open a Quick Tip with information about that specific item.
6) If the "Snap To" is checked, try unchecking it.
7) If the "Snap To" is not checked, try checking it.

The point of 6 & 7 is to have you look at the difference between selected values. Once you have changed a setting and clicked the "Apply" button, go back to your regular computer use and see if the change is desired or not. Leave or reset the options as you wish.

8) Finally, if nothing here helps, click the "Hardware" tab and use the "Troubleshooter" wizard. It may offer a solution.

You have not indicated what type of mouse that you're using. Different types will have their own unique fixes. This page has a number of different troubleshooting suggestions for mouse problems. This troubleshooting page may help: Click here.

I hope something here will help!

Dwight

me either i am using a gateway 2000 mouse with the roller ball in the middle and yes i changed the pointer to a gold arrow,i changed it back to original settings and it does not roam anymore.thanks i didnt think of that