Virus issues.

**Harrison** · 11th October 2010, 23:09

I recommend finding a scanner that can be self booted to check the drive, rather than one you run from inside windows. That will stop any system files being locked and able to be scanned or cleaned by a scanner. Download the latest version of HiRens 11.1 Boot disc as that has a load of scanners on the disc that can be booted directly into.

**J T** · 13th October 2010, 04:04

Format the drive, burn down the house, salt the ashes, take off and nuke the site from orbit.

It's the only way to be sure.

**Stephen Coates** · 13th October 2010, 19:27

Originally Posted by J T

Format the drive, burn down the house, salt the ashes, take off and nuke the site from orbit.

It's the only way to be sure.

That would probably do the trick, but reinstalling Windows afterwards might be rather difficult.

**Harrison** · 26th October 2010, 15:45

It is true that you need to locate the source of the virus, otherwise you might have it on a backup, or something you downloaded, and even reinstalling the OS you might reintroduce the virus again from one of these. A full scan of the existing system is recommended.

But a clean install is really the only and best way when infected badly to ensure all system files are clean.

**Stephen Coates** · 29th October 2010, 20:07

I've installed Windows XP Home Edition from the CD which Dell included with the computer, updated it to Service Pack 3, installed all the device drivers, and am currently installing some useful programmes using Ninite.