GUI isn't loading ( first time linux user)

I just installed Mandrake 9.1 and when the screen is trying to load it just hangs. All I see is the hourglass cursor and the login screen flashes occasionally.

Any ideas on what to do?

Thanks!

Why do you use the already old and unsopported 9.1 release? If you have broadband, you should download and use a newer release (e.g. 2005 or 2006). The problem with those old releases is that they might not have the modules included that are needed for your graphics card, especially if your computer is rather new. In any case, try the following:
Boot into failsafe mode and at the first prompt, type
init 3
at the next prompt, type "su" and enter the root password. Now type
XFdrake
and try to set up a working graphical environment with it.

Good luck.

Thanks, that fixed the problem.

Fine. :) Another happy user.