On Jan 16, 2:43 am, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

> Robert

>

> None of the issues Daave has raised relate to malware save for

> O3 - Toolbar: (no name) - {a2595f37-48d0-46a1-9b51-478591a97764} - (no

> file)

>

> This clearly represents a problem:http://search.live.com/results.aspx?q=a2595f37-48d0-46a1-9b51-478591a...

>

> Unfortunately when one Trojan gains entry it can hold the door open and

> invite friends in.

>

> Al the other points I think relate to whether you have extra software

> which may best off a system with limited "resources", which given you

> only have 256 mb RAM is how I would classify your computer. The extra

> RAM will make a lot of difference.

>

> You do not have to be so defensive over Adobe. It is pushed at new users

> from every direction. It is useful to those who like to edit pdf files

> but most users like just to read and print. Foxit has a much smaller

> footprint than Adobe and anyone wanting speedier performance will

> appreciate this, whether they have limited or abundant "resources. The

> switch to Foxit is driven by users exchanging experiences and not by

> marketting, where Adobe has all the cards.

>

> Removing all traces of Symantec has for many years been a problem. The

> most experienced users can have difficulties. You just have to remove

> what you find taking care not to damage the Registry when doing so. If

> in doubt leave it alone as it is unlikely to have a noticeable impact on

> performance. If you remove orphaned start ups using Autoruns you can

> forget about any other traces.

 

I did check this on Autoruns but still I would like to remove any

traces of Symantec from my computer as from my own experience it

causes nothing but problems. I did a search for 'Symantec' under files

and folders under C: and then deleted them one by one and then emptied

the Recycle bin. Oddly, today I had two emails stating that my

Symantec firewall was automatically renewed! I checked the Add/Remove

program and thankfully it wasn't there and junked the emails. Odd

>

> Messenger can be problematic to remove. Although frequently unused it's

> removal can have unwanted side effects. Just stop it from loading on

> start up.

>

> You will not get a speedy response from Bleeping Computer. You may have

> to wait a few days, perhaps a week, before they offer initial advice.

> Bleeping Computer will probably volunteer some advice when the present

> infestation is removed on how to improve your security arrangements .

> FWIW I also see their administration as a little over the top.

>

> I am not sure what anti-spyware programme you are relying on for real

> time protection. Some programmes only provide for ad hoc scanning. If

> you do not have real time protection this may explain your infestation.

 

 

 

I thought all the anti-virus programs were real time. As I said I now

have AVG, Avast, Kapersky along with Spybot, A-Squared, and Comodo.

 

After I 'removed' Symantec I asked for suggestions for a replacement

and thought I was well protected. If you have any recommendations for

a real time Anti-virus or to change what I have I would appreciate

it.

 

Robert

>

> --

>

> Hope  this helps.

>

> Gerry

> ~~~~

> FCA

> Stourport, England

> Enquire, plan and execute

> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

>

>

>

> Robert wrote:

> > On Jan 15, 4:24 pm, "Daave" <dcwashNOS...@myrealboxXYZ.invalid> wrote:

> >> Robert wrote:

> >>> It seems before I attempt to do a Clean Boot I need to purchase

> >>> Acronis so that I can image my hard drive, correct? If so, I have to

> >>> wait till my next check,...

>

> >> Not necessarily. I would just make sure you back up your data (which

> >> you should do regularly, anyway) and have a valid restore point in

> >> System Restore (ditto).

>

> >> If you want a free imaging program, you can try DriveImage XML:

>

> >>http://www.runtime.org/dixml.htm

>

> >> But Acronis does seem to be the overwhelming favorite! YMMV.

>

> > I think before running a Clean Boot the malware issue needs to be

> > resolved first. As yet I haven't heard anything from BleepingComputer.

>

> > Robert- Hide quoted text -

>

> - Show quoted text -

>

> When you say your "toolbars are locked," what do you mean?

 

I right clicked on the IE toolbar and gave you what it showed. I guess

I downloaded these other toolbars at some point but don't see them on

my screen.

>

> >> If you don't use MSN Messenger, you should uninstall it.

>

 

I've uninstalled Google and Yahoo toolbars and went into Autoruns and

unchecked MSNMessenger so it won't start-up.

 

> >> There are tons of entries for Logitech Desktop Messenger. If you

> >> don't use it, uninstall it.>

 

I've uninstalled the Desktop Messenger

 

> >> There are entries for AVG, Avast, and Kaspersky. Are you using them

> >> all?

>

> Is Kaspersky just a trial? If not, that means you paid for it, and since

> it's one of the highest-rated AV apps, keep it! (BTW, I don't recall

> recommending Kaspersky in this thread. Their online scan, yes, but not

> the application.)

 

I apoligize, your quite correct regarding Kapersky, its their online

trial version. I think from what your saying I need to have one good

real-time application running in real time that won't conflict with

the other applications. I think Avast is also a online trail version.

I choose AVG because it was free and came highly recommended.

 

I would prefer to have only (1) anti-virus running as it's time

consuming even with what I originally had. So I will try and configure

AVG to run in real time although I'm not sure if it will conflict with

Avast and Kapersky?

>

> No need to uninstall any apps necessarily. Just make sure you're not

> running them at the same time (and this includes real-time scanning).

> You need to get into the preferences and configure settings there.

> Another way is Autoruns, but I would only use that if you can't do it

> any other way.

>

> Symantec is notorious for this behavior. Have a look at:

>

> http://basconotw.mvps.org/SymRem.htm

 

As I noted in my reply to Gerry, I think I finally have removed all of

Symantec products(I hope), and checked autoruns and it isn't there.

However, what is strange is that I recieved (2) emails stating that my

Symantec firewall is automatically renewed. I junk filed both messages

and checked to see if indeed I have any Symantec products in the Add/

Remove program.

 

 

I suppose at this point its a matter of waiting for the (2) sticks of

256 RAM which I hope arrive, and resolving the malware issue.

 

Any other suggestions or recommendations?

 

 

Robert

Robert

 

Anti-virus and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I was asking

about anti-spyware programmes. You can find composites that cover both

aspects.

 

With regard to anti-spyware programmes you will find that some have free

versions not providing real time protection with corresponding paid

versions providing real time protection. You need to know exactly what

you have installed.

 

--

 

 

 

Hope this helps.

 

Gerry

~~~~

FCA

Stourport, England

Enquire, plan and execute

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

Robert wrote:

> On Jan 16, 2:43 am, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

>> Robert

>>

>> None of the issues Daave has raised relate to malware save for

>> O3 - Toolbar: (no name) - {a2595f37-48d0-46a1-9b51-478591a97764} -

>> (no

>> file)

>>

>> This clearly represents a

>> problem:http://search.live.com/results.aspx?q=a2595f37-48d0-46a1-9b51-478591a...

>>

>> Unfortunately when one Trojan gains entry it can hold the door open

>> and

>> invite friends in.

>>

>> Al the other points I think relate to whether you have extra software

>> which may best off a system with limited "resources", which given you

>> only have 256 mb RAM is how I would classify your computer. The extra

>> RAM will make a lot of difference.

>>

>> You do not have to be so defensive over Adobe. It is pushed at new

>> users

>> from every direction. It is useful to those who like to edit pdf

>> files

>> but most users like just to read and print. Foxit has a much smaller

>> footprint than Adobe and anyone wanting speedier performance will

>> appreciate this, whether they have limited or abundant "resources.

>> The

>> switch to Foxit is driven by users exchanging experiences and not by

>> marketting, where Adobe has all the cards.

>>

>> Removing all traces of Symantec has for many years been a problem.

>> The

>> most experienced users can have difficulties. You just have to remove

>> what you find taking care not to damage the Registry when doing so.

>> If

>> in doubt leave it alone as it is unlikely to have a noticeable

>> impact on

>> performance. If you remove orphaned start ups using Autoruns you can

>> forget about any other traces.

>

> I did check this on Autoruns but still I would like to remove any

> traces of Symantec from my computer as from my own experience it

> causes nothing but problems. I did a search for 'Symantec' under files

> and folders under C: and then deleted them one by one and then emptied

> the Recycle bin. Oddly, today I had two emails stating that my

> Symantec firewall was automatically renewed! I checked the Add/Remove

> program and thankfully it wasn't there and junked the emails. Odd

>

>>

>> Messenger can be problematic to remove. Although frequently unused

>> it's

>> removal can have unwanted side effects. Just stop it from loading on

>> start up.

>>

>

>> You will not get a speedy response from Bleeping Computer. You may

>> have

>> to wait a few days, perhaps a week, before they offer initial advice.

>> Bleeping Computer will probably volunteer some advice when the

>> present

>> infestation is removed on how to improve your security arrangements .

>> FWIW I also see their administration as a little over the top.

>>

>> I am not sure what anti-spyware programme you are relying on for real

>> time protection. Some programmes only provide for ad hoc scanning. If

>> you do not have real time protection this may explain your

>> infestation.

>

>

>

> I thought all the anti-virus programs were real time. As I said I now

> have AVG, Avast, Kapersky along with Spybot, A-Squared, and Comodo.

>

> After I 'removed' Symantec I asked for suggestions for a replacement

> and thought I was well protected. If you have any recommendations for

> a real time Anti-virus or to change what I have I would appreciate

> it.

>

> Robert

>>

>> --

>>

>> Hope this helps.

>>

>> Gerry

>> ~~~~

>> FCA

>> Stourport, England

>> Enquire, plan and execute

>> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

>>

>>

>>

>> Robert wrote:

>>> On Jan 15, 4:24 pm, "Daave" <dcwashNOS...@myrealboxXYZ.invalid>

>>> wrote:

>>>> Robert wrote:

>>>>> It seems before I attempt to do a Clean Boot I need to purchase

>>>>> Acronis so that I can image my hard drive, correct? If so, I have

>>>>> to wait till my next check,...

>>

>>>> Not necessarily. I would just make sure you back up your data

>>>> (which you should do regularly, anyway) and have a valid restore

>>>> point in System Restore (ditto).

>>

>>>> If you want a free imaging program, you can try DriveImage XML:

>>

>>>> http://www.runtime.org/dixml.htm

>>

>>>> But Acronis does seem to be the overwhelming favorite! YMMV.

>>

>>> I think before running a Clean Boot the malware issue needs to be

>>> resolved first. As yet I haven't heard anything from

>>> BleepingComputer.

>>

>>> Robert- Hide quoted text -

>>

>> - Show quoted text -

On Jan 16, 2:46 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

> Robert

>

> Anti-virus and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I was asking

> about anti-spyware programmes. You can find composites that cover both

> aspects.

>

> With regard to anti-spyware programmes you will find that some have free

> versions not providing real time protection with corresponding paid

> versions providing real time protection. You need to know exactly what

> you have installed.

>

> --

>

> Hope  this helps.

>

> Gerry

> ~~~~

> FCA

> Stourport, England

> Enquire, plan and execute

> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

>

>

>

 

You have to bear with me, as I'm not as computer literate as you and

Daave. For example I thought these were the same: Anti-virus and anti-

virus programmes.

 

This is what I think I have a free version of AVG, Spybot, A-Squared

and Comodo anda free trial version of Avast and Kapersky. If I'm not

getting this or other things right please explain them to me so that

were talking on the same page.

 

Understand that I'm on a rather limited fixed income and this is why I

went with these free versions but if you and Daave could recommend a

good virus protection program such as Kapersky that would protect my

system better then I suppose I can pay for it although if I can get

around having to pay for it I would rather do that.

 

 

Robert

On Jan 16, 2:46 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

> Robert

>

> Anti-virus and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I was asking

> about anti-spyware programmes. You can find composites that cover both

> aspects.

>

> With regard to anti-spyware programmes you will find that some have free

> versions not providing real time protection with corresponding paid

> versions providing real time protection. You need to know exactly what

> you have installed.

>

> --

>

> Hope  this helps.

>

> Gerry

> ~~~~

> FCA

> Stourport, England

> Enquire, plan and execute

> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

>

>

>

 

 

I went into the settings of Avast, Kapersky and AVG and didn't see

anything to make them run in real time. Perhaps its because they are

free and free trial versions?

 

I understand what you mean that some programs offer protection from

virus's and spyware, hackers etc such as upgrading my AVG or buying

Kapersky.

 

Although you mention that I wouldn't hear from Bleeping computer for

awhile it's been viewed 21 times with no responses. Perhaps they are

just analyzing the problem?

 

I think after I get the (2) sticks installed and the malware problem

resolved I'll do a Clean Boot as Daave suggested just to make sure

everything is ok. What do you think?

 

 

Robert

The free versions of AVG and Avast! run real-time scanners by default.

Unless you have turned them off they just run.

 

"Robert" <magineeer@hotmail.com> wrote in message

news:aed5c941-a894-49dd-954e-5a9d46771ecf@d4g2000prg.googlegroups.com...

On Jan 16, 2:46 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

> Robert

>

> Anti-virus and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I was asking

> about anti-spyware programmes. You can find composites that cover both

> aspects.

>

> With regard to anti-spyware programmes you will find that some have free

> versions not providing real time protection with corresponding paid

> versions providing real time protection. You need to know exactly what

> you have installed.

>

> --

>

> Hope this helps.

>

> Gerry

> ~~~~

> FCA

> Stourport, England

> Enquire, plan and execute

> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

>

>

>

 

 

I went into the settings of Avast, Kapersky and AVG and didn't see

anything to make them run in real time. Perhaps its because they are

free and free trial versions?

 

I understand what you mean that some programs offer protection from

virus's and spyware, hackers etc such as upgrading my AVG or buying

Kapersky.

 

Although you mention that I wouldn't hear from Bleeping computer for

awhile it's been viewed 21 times with no responses. Perhaps they are

just analyzing the problem?

 

I think after I get the (2) sticks installed and the malware problem

resolved I'll do a Clean Boot as Daave suggested just to make sure

everything is ok. What do you think?

 

 

Robert

Robert

 

AVG 7.5 offer a free Anti-Virus programme , which I think you have and

there is a free Anti-Spyware programme, which I suspect you do not have.

The free Anti-Spyware programme does not include real time protection

http://www.grisoft.com/doc/21/us/crp/0

http://free.grisoft.com/doc/download-free-anti-spyware/us/frt/0

 

Avast provide a free anti-virus programme.

http://www.avast.com/eng/download-avast-home.html

 

Kaspersky offer anti-virus and internet security programme but neither

is on a freeware basis.

 

A-Squared offer a freeware anti-malware scanner but this does not

include real time protection.

 

Commodo offer a free firewall.

 

Spybot S & D provide a freeware anti-spyware scanner, which does not

include real time protection.

 

Microsoft offer Windows Defender a freeware anti-spyware programme,

which includes real time protection.

http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx

 

I suggest you consider changing to:

 

AVG 7.5 Free Anti-Virus ( or Avast 4 Home Edition ).

 

Windows Defender for spyware protection.

 

Spybot S & D as a support scanner.

 

Windows Firewall to replace Commodo.

 

Install a Host file:

http://www.accs-net.com/hosts/index.html

 

--

 

 

 

Hope this helps.

 

Gerry

~~~~

FCA

Stourport, England

Enquire, plan and execute

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

Robert wrote:

> On Jan 16, 2:46 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

>> Robert

>>

>> Anti-virus and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I was asking

>> about anti-spyware programmes. You can find composites that cover

>> both aspects.

>>

>> With regard to anti-spyware programmes you will find that some have

>> free versions not providing real time protection with corresponding

>> paid versions providing real time protection. You need to know

>> exactly what you have installed.

>>

>> --

>>

>> Hope this helps.

>>

>> Gerry

>> ~~~~

>> FCA

>> Stourport, England

>> Enquire, plan and execute

>> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

>>

>>

>>

>

> You have to bear with me, as I'm not as computer literate as you and

> Daave. For example I thought these were the same: Anti-virus and anti-

> virus programmes.

>

> This is what I think I have a free version of AVG, Spybot, A-Squared

> and Comodo anda free trial version of Avast and Kapersky. If I'm not

> getting this or other things right please explain them to me so that

> were talking on the same page.

>

> Understand that I'm on a rather limited fixed income and this is why I

> went with these free versions but if you and Daave could recommend a

> good virus protection program such as Kapersky that would protect my

> system better then I suppose I can pay for it although if I can get

> around having to pay for it I would rather do that.

>

>

> Robert

Robert

 

Viewed 21 times means probably 20 other users and guests having a nose.

Only Bleeping Computer helpers can post and they are days behind. Look

at the older logs posted and you will see you have to go some way before

you find posts.

 

On Clean booting I would wait and see how things look when you have your

extra RAM installed and malware removed.

 

--

 

 

 

Hope this helps.

 

Gerry

~~~~

FCA

Stourport, England

Enquire, plan and execute

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

 

Robert wrote:

>>

>>

>>

>

>

> I went into the settings of Avast, Kapersky and AVG and didn't see

> anything to make them run in real time. Perhaps its because they are

> free and free trial versions?

>

> I understand what you mean that some programs offer protection from

> virus's and spyware, hackers etc such as upgrading my AVG or buying

> Kapersky.

>

> Although you mention that I wouldn't hear from Bleeping computer for

> awhile it's been viewed 21 times with no responses. Perhaps they are

> just analyzing the problem?

>

> I think after I get the (2) sticks installed and the malware problem

> resolved I'll do a Clean Boot as Daave suggested just to make sure

> everything is ok. What do you think?

>

>

> Robert

Robert wrote:

> On Jan 16, 2:46 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

>> Robert

>>

>> Anti-virus and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I was asking

>> about anti-spyware programmes.

 

[snip]

> You have to bear with me, as I'm not as computer literate as you and

> Daave. For example I thought these were the same: Anti-virus and anti-

> virus programmes.

 

Robert, Gerry meant to say:

 

"Anti-spyware programmes and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I

was asking about anti-spyware programmes."

Colin

 

AVG 7.5 Free Anti-Virus does have a Resident Shield. However, the

concern is to gain real time anti-spyware protection. The AVG Free

Anti-Spyware does not offer real time protection:

http://free.grisoft.com/doc/download-free-anti-spyware/us/frt/0

 

The latest Avast offering does have a web shield. I had thought of Avast

as an anti-virus programme but it does seem to go beyond that function:

http://www.avast.com/eng/whats_new_in_avastve.html

 

--

Regards.

 

Gerry

~~~~

FCA

Stourport, England

Enquire, plan and execute

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Colin Barnhorst wrote:

> The free versions of AVG and Avast! run real-time scanners by default.

> Unless you have turned them off they just run.

>

> "Robert" <magineeer@hotmail.com> wrote in message

> news:aed5c941-a894-49dd-954e-5a9d46771ecf@d4g2000prg.googlegroups.com...

> On Jan 16, 2:46 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

>> Robert

>>

>> Anti-virus and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I was asking

>> about anti-spyware programmes. You can find composites that cover

>> both aspects.

>>

>> With regard to anti-spyware programmes you will find that some have

>> free versions not providing real time protection with corresponding

>> paid versions providing real time protection. You need to know

>> exactly what you have installed.

>>

>> --

>>

>> Hope this helps.

>>

>> Gerry

>> ~~~~

>> FCA

>> Stourport, England

>> Enquire, plan and execute

>> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

>>

>>

>>

>

>

> I went into the settings of Avast, Kapersky and AVG and didn't see

> anything to make them run in real time. Perhaps its because they are

> free and free trial versions?

>

> I understand what you mean that some programs offer protection from

> virus's and spyware, hackers etc such as upgrading my AVG or buying

> Kapersky.

>

> Although you mention that I wouldn't hear from Bleeping computer for

> awhile it's been viewed 21 times with no responses. Perhaps they are

> just analyzing the problem?

>

> I think after I get the (2) sticks installed and the malware problem

> resolved I'll do a Clean Boot as Daave suggested just to make sure

> everything is ok. What do you think?

>

>

> Robert

On Jan 16, 5:00 pm, "Daave" <dcwashNOS...@myrealboxXYZ.invalid> wrote:

> Robert wrote:

> > On Jan 16, 2:46 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

> >> Robert

>

> >> Anti-virus and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I was asking

> >> about anti-spyware programmes.

>

> [snip]

>

> > You have to bear with me, as I'm not as computer literate as you and

> > Daave. For example I thought these were the same: Anti-virus and anti-

> > virus programmes.

>

> Robert, Gerry meant to say:

>

> "Anti-spyware programmes and anti-virus programmes are not the same. I

> was asking about anti-spyware programmes."

 

Ah,. now I understand

On Jan 16, 5:00 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

> Robert

>

> Viewed 21 times  means probably 20 other users and guests having a nose.

> Only Bleeping Computer helpers can post and they are days behind. Look

> at the older logs posted and you will see you have to go some way before

> you find posts.

>

> On Clean booting I would wait and see how things look when you have your

> extra RAM installed and malware removed.

>

> --

>

> Hope  this helps.

>

> Gerry

> ~~~~

> FCA

> Stourport, England

> Enquire, plan and execute

> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

>

>

>

> Robert wrote:

>

> > I went into the settings of Avast, Kapersky and AVG and didn't see

> > anything to make them run in real time. Perhaps its because they are

> > free and free trial versions?

>

> > I understand what you mean that some programs offer protection from

> > virus's and spyware, hackers etc such as upgrading my AVG or buying

> > Kapersky.

>

> > Although you mention that I wouldn't hear from Bleeping computer for

> > awhile it's been viewed 21 times with no responses. Perhaps they are

> > just analyzing the problem?

>

> > I think after I get the (2) sticks installed and the malware problem

> > resolved I'll do a Clean Boot as Daave suggested just to make sure

> > everything is ok. What do you think?

>

> > Robert- Hide quoted text -

>

> - Show quoted text -

 

Agreed

 

Robert

On Jan 16, 4:49 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

> Robert

>

> AVG 7.5  offer a free Anti-Virus programme , which I think you have and

> there is a free Anti-Spyware programme, which I suspect you do not have.

> The free Anti-Spyware programme does not include real time protectionhttp://www.grisoft.com/doc/21/us/crp/0http://free.grisoft.com/doc/download-free-anti-spyware/us/frt/0

>

> Avast provide a free anti-virus programme.http://www.avast.com/eng/download-avast-home.html

>

> Kaspersky offer anti-virus and internet security programme but neither

> is on a freeware basis.

>

> A-Squared offer a freeware anti-malware scanner but this does not

> include real time protection.

>

> Commodo offer a free firewall.

>

> Spybot  S & D provide a freeware anti-spyware scanner, which does not

> include real time protection.

>

> Microsoft offer Windows Defender a freeware anti-spyware programme,

> which includes real time protection.http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx

>

> I suggest you consider changing to:

>

> AVG 7.5 Free Anti-Virus ( or Avast 4 Home Edition ).

>

> Windows Defender for spyware protection.

>

> Spybot S & D as a support scanner.

>

> Windows Firewall to replace Commodo.

>

> Install a Host file:http://www.accs-net.com/hosts/index.html

>

> --

>

> Hope  this helps.

>

> Gerry

> ~~~~

> FCA

> Stourport, England

> Enquire, plan and execute

> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

Hello Gerry,

I have AVG 7.5

Downloaded Windows Defender

I have Spybot

Windows Firewall is already checked (although from what I've read it

wasn't really effective till Vista)

downloaded DNSKong

 

Would you suggest I remove the following? Avast, Kapersky free trial

versions, Everest, Hijackthis, HD-Tune, Java(6 update 3),

PRO200WL,Shockwave, Spywareblaster v 3.5.1, Hive Cleanup, Quicktime?

 

I fully realize the issue lies with only 256MB of RAM but I'm just

trying to lean out my computer of programs I don't really need.

 

 

Robert

On Jan 16, 6:23 pm, Robert <magine...@hotmail.com> wrote:

> On Jan 16, 4:49 pm, "Gerry" <ge...@nospam.com> wrote:

>

>

>

>

>

> > Robert

>

> > AVG 7.5  offer a free Anti-Virus programme , which I think you have and

> > there is a free Anti-Spyware programme, which I suspect you do not have.

> > The free Anti-Spyware programme does not include real time protectionhttp://www.grisoft.com/doc/21/us/crp/0http://free.grisoft.com/doc/dow...

>

> > Avast provide a free anti-virus programme.http://www.avast.com/eng/download-avast-home.html

>

> > Kaspersky offer anti-virus and internet security programme but neither

> > is on a freeware basis.

>

> > A-Squared offer a freeware anti-malware scanner but this does not

> > include real time protection.

>

> > Commodo offer a free firewall.

>

> > Spybot  S & D provide a freeware anti-spyware scanner, which does not

> > include real time protection.

>

> > Microsoft offer Windows Defender a freeware anti-spyware programme,

> > which includes real time protection.http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx

>

> > I suggest you consider changing to:

>

> > AVG 7.5 Free Anti-Virus ( or Avast 4 Home Edition ).

>

> > Windows Defender for spyware protection.

>

> > Spybot S & D as a support scanner.

>

> > Windows Firewall to replace Commodo.

>

> > Install a Host file:http://www.accs-net.com/hosts/index.html

>

> > --

>

> > Hope  this helps.

>

> > Gerry

> > ~~~~

> > FCA

> > Stourport, England

> > Enquire, plan and execute

> > ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

>

> Hello Gerry,

> I have AVG 7.5

> Downloaded Windows Defender

> I have Spybot

> Windows Firewall is already checked (although from what I've read it

> wasn't really effective till Vista)

> downloaded DNSKong

>

> Would you suggest I remove the following? Avast, Kapersky free trial

> versions, Everest, Hijackthis, HD-Tune, Java(6 update 3),

> PRO200WL,Shockwave, Spywareblaster v 3.5.1, Hive Cleanup, Quicktime?

>

> I fully realize the issue lies with only 256MB of RAM but I'm just

> trying to lean out my computer of programs I don't really need.

>

> Robert- Hide quoted text -

>

> - Show quoted text -

 

Boy, this post is getting really long, but then again it may serve

others with similar problems and both of you have given me valuable

links that others may use.

 

The host file seems a bit confusing, not to understand, but to

implement and it seems I need to download a host file not just

DNSKong, but an actual host file, yet they all seem to be zipped and

would I not need another program to unzip them?

 

 

Robert

In passing, I spent 30 minutes on the phone(waiting/ talking) to a

representative from Symantec to reverse and delete the automatic

subscription of Norton Anti-Virus and Firewall they charged to my

account. I can't believe how difficult they make to get rid of their

products. Hopefully this will be the last time I ever have to deal

with them!

 

Robert

Robert wrote:

> Windows Firewall is already checked

 

Do you mean you have been running *both* the Windows and Comodo

firewalls simultaneously? If so, I'm sure that can cause problems.

Robert wrote:

> Would you suggest I remove the following? Avast, Kapersky free trial

> versions, Everest, Hijackthis, HD-Tune, Java(6 update 3),

> PRO200WL,Shockwave, Spywareblaster v 3.5.1, Hive Cleanup, Quicktime?

>

> I fully realize the issue lies with only 256MB of RAM but I'm just

> trying to lean out my computer of programs I don't really need.

 

Robert, the key is not uninstalling as many programs as possible, but

rather to uninstall programs that are running in the background that you

have absolutely no use for (or at least to configure them not to run

automatically at startup if there is a use for them... remember you can

always manually start any program *when you wish*). If a program you

once installed isn't running, then it won't be requiring any memory. If

you think you may need to run it again eventually, there's no waste of

memory if you choose not to uninstall it.

 

As I mentioned in another post, you can easily see which programs load

at startup by running msconfig (Start | Run | msconfig). Autoruns gives

you the same information and a *whole* lot more info, but for this

purpose, msconfig will do the trick. Then use these sites to research

what you don't need (and for recommendations on how to disable them from

running at startup):

 

http://www.pacs-portal.co.uk/startup_content.php#THE_PROGRAMS

 

http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/startups/

 

This one is good to have bookmarked, too:

 

http://www.answersthatwork.com/Tasklist_pages/tasklist.htm

 

I'm not sure how your QuickTime is configured, but if you have the

QuickTime icon in your System Tray, you can address that issue by

following the instructions at:

 

http://www.answersthatwork.com/Tasklist_pages/tasklist_q.htm

 

Scroll down to Qttask.

On Jan 16, 7:33 pm, "Daave" <dcwashNOS...@myrealboxXYZ.invalid> wrote:

> Robert wrote:

> > Windows Firewall is already checked

>

> Do you mean you have been running *both* the Windows and Comodo

> firewalls simultaneously? If so, I'm sure that can cause problems.

 

Yes, I was running both but have uninstalled Comodo, and all the

toolbars are now uninstalled.

 

Robert

On Jan 16, 7:56 pm, "Daave" <dcwashNOS...@myrealboxXYZ.invalid> wrote:

> Robert wrote:

> > Would you suggest I remove the following? Avast, Kapersky free trial

> > versions, Everest, Hijackthis, HD-Tune, Java(6 update 3),

> > PRO200WL,Shockwave, Spywareblaster v 3.5.1, Hive Cleanup, Quicktime?

>

> > I fully realize the issue lies with only 256MB of RAM but I'm just

> > trying to lean out my computer of programs I don't really need.

>

> Robert, the key is not uninstalling as many programs as possible, but

> rather to uninstall programs that are running in the background that you

> have absolutely no use for (or at least to configure them not to run

> automatically at startup if there is a use for them... remember you can

> always manually start any program *when you wish*). If a program you

> once installed isn't running, then it won't be requiring any memory. If

> you think you may need to run it again eventually, there's no waste of

> memory if you choose not to uninstall it.

>

 

 

I'm sorry if I wasn't clear, I'm not trying to randomly uninstall as

many programs as possible but am trying to do as you suggest. I just

don't know what some of these programs do, such as Shockwave and

Spyblaster. I have gone into Autorun and checked those programs I

didn't want to run at Start-up e.g. MoneyAgent, Microsoft Outlook, and

files not found.

 

I called to check the status of my order of RAM sticks and they said

they'll arrive tomorrow, so hopefully I will be adding (2) sticks

tomorrow sometime.

 

I ran A-squared last night and it found the virus and I deleted it,

then ran it a second time but it showed up again. So I guess I have to

wait for the experts on Bleeping Computer to advise me.

 

 

Robert

Robert wrote:

> On Jan 16, 7:56 pm, "Daave" <dcwashNOS...@myrealboxXYZ.invalid> wrote:

>> Robert wrote:

>>> Would you suggest I remove the following? Avast, Kapersky free trial

>>> versions, Everest, Hijackthis, HD-Tune, Java(6 update 3),

>>> PRO200WL,Shockwave, Spywareblaster v 3.5.1, Hive Cleanup, Quicktime?

>>

>>> I fully realize the issue lies with only 256MB of RAM but I'm just

>>> trying to lean out my computer of programs I don't really need.

>>

>> Robert, the key is not uninstalling as many programs as possible, but

>> rather to uninstall programs that are running in the background that

>> you have absolutely no use for (or at least to configure them not to

>> run automatically at startup if there is a use for them... remember

>> you can always manually start any program *when you wish*). If a

>> program you once installed isn't running, then it won't be requiring

>> any memory. If you think you may need to run it again eventually,

>> there's no waste of memory if you choose not to uninstall it.

> I'm sorry if I wasn't clear, I'm not trying to randomly uninstall as

> many programs as possible but am trying to do as you suggest. I just

> don't know what some of these programs do, such as Shockwave and

> Spyblaster. I have gone into Autorun and checked those programs I

> didn't want to run at Start-up e.g. MoneyAgent, Microsoft Outlook, and

> files not found.

 

You asked what I think you should remove. My point is that there is no

need to remove *anything* as long as it isn't running. Now if you're

just interested in doing some spring cleaning, you will have to be the

one who decides what you want to uninstall. Use Google to find out about

these programs. For instance, you will see that Shockwave is a plug-in

used for certain Web content. I don't know what Spyblaster is, but

SpywareBlaster is useful in preventing spyware by using Internet

Explorer's restricted sites and blocking a large number of potentially

harmful ActiveX controls (and some tracking cookies as well). If you hav

e it, it's important to keep it updated.

> I ran A-squared last night and it found the virus and I deleted it,

> then ran it a second time but it showed up again. So I guess I have to

> wait for the experts on Bleeping Computer to advise me.

 

What's the name of the virus?

 

If you can identify it, there should be specific removal steps.

Robert

 

You only need to remove programmes that you do not intend to use.

 

You will need HiJackThis as Bleeping Computer will want another log in

due course.

 

Everest and HD Tune are useful utilities and only load on demand.

 

PRO200WL is to do with your network adapter. Unless it relates to a

previous network card it should not be uninstalled.

 

UPH Hive CleanUp is needed to help ensure your computer closes down

efficiently and should not be uninstalled.

 

Spywareblaster is another anti-spyware programme I did not realise you

had. I would say surplus to requirements.

 

Shockwave is games software. You must decide whether you value what it

provides.

http://www.shockwave.com/home.jsp

 

Quicktime is an Apple product for playing music. You must decide whether

you value what it provides.

http://www.apple.com/quicktime/

 

 

--

 

 

 

Hope this helps.

 

Gerry

~~~~

FCA

Stourport, England

Enquire, plan and execute

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Robert wrote:

>>

>

> Hello Gerry,

> I have AVG 7.5

> Downloaded Windows Defender

> I have Spybot

> Windows Firewall is already checked (although from what I've read it

> wasn't really effective till Vista)

> downloaded DNSKong

>

> Would you suggest I remove the following? Avast, Kapersky free trial

> versions, Everest, Hijackthis, HD-Tune, Java(6 update 3),

> PRO200WL,Shockwave, Spywareblaster v 3.5.1, Hive Cleanup, Quicktime?

>

> I fully realize the issue lies with only 256MB of RAM but I'm just

> trying to lean out my computer of programs I don't really need.

>

>

> Robert

On Jan 17, 10:58 am, "Daave" <dcwashNOS...@myrealboxXYZ.invalid>

wrote:

> Robert wrote:

> > On Jan 16, 7:56 pm, "Daave" <dcwashNOS...@myrealboxXYZ.invalid> wrote:

> >> Robert wrote:

> >>> Would you suggest I remove the following? Avast, Kapersky free trial

> >>> versions, Everest, Hijackthis, HD-Tune, Java(6 update 3),

> >>> PRO200WL,Shockwave, Spywareblaster v 3.5.1, Hive Cleanup, Quicktime?

>

> >>> I fully realize the issue lies with only 256MB of RAM but I'm just

> >>> trying to lean out my computer of programs I don't really need.

>

> >> Robert, the key is not uninstalling as many programs as possible, but

> >> rather to uninstall programs that are running in the background that

> >> you have absolutely no use for (or at least to configure them not to

> >> run automatically at startup if there is a use for them... remember

> >> you can always manually start any program *when you wish*). If a

> >> program you once installed isn't running, then it won't be requiring

> >> any memory. If you think you may need to run it again eventually,

> >> there's no waste of memory if you choose not to uninstall it.

> > I'm sorry if I wasn't clear, I'm not trying to randomly uninstall as

> > many programs as possible but am trying to do as you suggest. I just

> > don't know what some of these programs do, such as Shockwave and

> > Spyblaster. I have gone into Autorun and checked those programs I

> > didn't want to run at Start-up e.g. MoneyAgent, Microsoft Outlook, and

> > files not found.

>

> You asked what I think you should remove. My point is that there is no

> need to remove *anything* as long as it isn't running. Now if you're

> just interested in doing some spring cleaning, you will have to be the

> one who decides what you want to uninstall. Use Google to find out about

> these programs. For instance, you will see that Shockwave is a plug-in

> used for certain Web content. I don't know what Spyblaster is, but

> SpywareBlaster is useful in preventing spyware by using Internet

> Explorer's restricted sites and blocking a large number of potentially

> harmful ActiveX controls (and some tracking cookies as well). If you hav

> e it, it's important to keep it updated.

>

> > I ran A-squared last night and it found the virus and I deleted it,

> > then ran it a second time but it showed up again. So I guess I have to

> > wait for the experts on Bleeping Computer to advise me.

>

> What's the name of the virus?

>

> If you can identify it, there should be specific removal steps.- Hide quoted text -

>

> - Show quoted text -

 

I'm sorry, I didn't think to write the name of the virus down, my

fault. I'll run A-Squared again and get it.

 

I checked out the sites you gave and I went into msconfig and have to

tell you I was rather leary of doing so and clicked ok to the item

that was already checked (I think it said all startup items) and then

it came back with a message that I have to restart my computer for

changes to take effect! That really had me sweating! I'm not at all

comfortable going into msconfig or what I'm suppose to do once I'm

in.

 

Robert

Robert

 

To extract files from a zipped compressed folder

Open My Computer, and then locate the compressed folder.

Do one of the following:

To extract a single file or folder, double-click the compressed folder

to open it. Then, drag the file or folder from the compressed folder to

a new location.

To extract all files or folders, right-click the compressed folder, and

then click Extract All. In the Compressed (zipped) Folders Extraction

Wizard, specify where you want to store the extracted files.

Notes

To open My Computer, click Start, and then click My Computer.

You can identify compressed folders by the zipper on the folder icon.

If the file is protected with a password, you must provide the password

before the file can be extracted to the folder you specify.

When you extract a file, a compressed version remains in the compressed

folder. To delete the compressed version, right-click the file, and then

click Delete.

When you extract a file from a compressed folder that is password

protected, the extracted file is no longer protected.

 

Source : Windows XP Help and Support.

 

 

--

 

 

 

Hope this helps.

 

Gerry

~~~~

FCA

Stourport, England

Enquire, plan and execute

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

 

Robert wrote:

> On Jan 16, 6:23 pm, Robert <magine...@hotmail.com> wrote:

>

> Boy, this post is getting really long, but then again it may serve

> others with similar problems and both of you have given me valuable

> links that others may use.

>

> The host file seems a bit confusing, not to understand, but to

> implement and it seems I need to download a host file not just

> DNSKong, but an actual host file, yet they all seem to be zipped and

> would I not need another program to unzip them?

>

>

> Robert

Robert

 

Use Autoruns rather than msconfig. Disable first to test impact and

remove only after a few days testing. It's a safer approach.

 

First thing you must do with any infestation is to write down the name

of the malware. You can then read up about it.

 

Same applies with error messages make sure you have the exact text of

the message or ensure you know where a copy of the error report is.

 

 

 

--

 

 

 

Hope this helps.

 

Gerry

~~~~

FCA

Stourport, England

Enquire, plan and execute

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Robert wrote:

>

> I'm sorry, I didn't think to write the name of the virus down, my

> fault. I'll run A-Squared again and get it.

>

> I checked out the sites you gave and I went into msconfig and have to

> tell you I was rather leary of doing so and clicked ok to the item

> that was already checked (I think it said all startup items) and then

> it came back with a message that I have to restart my computer for

> changes to take effect! That really had me sweating! I'm not at all

> comfortable going into msconfig or what I'm suppose to do once I'm

> in.

>

> Robert

On Wed, 16 Jan 2008 22:56:26 -0500, "Daave"

<dcwashNOSPAM@myrealboxXYZ.invalid> wrote:

> Robert wrote:

> > Would you suggest I remove the following? Avast, Kapersky free trial

> > versions, Everest, Hijackthis, HD-Tune, Java(6 update 3),

> > PRO200WL,Shockwave, Spywareblaster v 3.5.1, Hive Cleanup, Quicktime?

> >

> > I fully realize the issue lies with only 256MB of RAM but I'm just

> > trying to lean out my computer of programs I don't really need.

>

> Robert, the key is not uninstalling as many programs as possible, but

> rather to uninstall programs that are running in the background that you

> have absolutely no use for (or at least to configure them not to run

> automatically at startup if there is a use for them... remember you can

> always manually start any program *when you wish*).

 

 

 

Very well said.

 

 

> If a program you

> once installed isn't running, then it won't be requiring any memory.

 

 

I wanted to add a comment here, though. Strange as it sounds, even a

program that is *is* running may not require any (real) memory. That's

because Windows very quickly pages out any memory used by a running

program if that program isn't actively doing anything. So it will be

using virtual memory, but no real memory.

 

The penalty you pay for using virtual memory in the page file is when

that memory has to constantly be shuttled in and out of real memory

because there isn't enough real memory to accommodate all the programs

that need it at the same time. But some running programs sit in the

background, not doing anything until you use them, and therefore use

no real memory at all (until you use them).

 

A good example of that last kind of program is one that I keep running

here all the time: Allchars. AllChars lets me (in all applications)

type many common special characters (many of these are used in other

languages) by pressing the ctrl key followed by a two character

mnemonic combination. I need to do this seldom, but it's very handy to

have running for when I need it. But because I use it seldom, the

memory it uses is almost always paged out, and having it running in

the background has no effect on my performance. That's an example of

why I so often say "Despite what many people tell you, you should be

concerned, not with how *many* of these programs you run, but *which*.

Some of them can hurt performance severely, but others have no effect

on performance."

 

That's also an example of why having programs starting automatically

can slow down your boot time (because they take time to load) without

affecting overall performance.

 

 

--

Ken Blake, Microsoft MVP Windows - Shell/User

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