PC Troubleshooting

Virus / Malware / Trojan / Spyware Removal

Computer running slow? Continuousley getting popups telling you that you have a virus and to download free anti virus software? Can't access certain websites? Continuousley get re-directed to other websites?

If any of the above is occuring on your pc then you have a virus or malware installed. Some of the latest viruses and malware integrate themselves that much that they are near enough impossible to remove without a re-install of windows. They connect to the internet and download updated versions, insert themselves into the windows startup and recreate themselves each time your pc is re-booted. If you take your PC to any PC repair shop I would almost guarentee that they would recommend a re-install of windows. This can cause you a lot of problems... Your settings will be lost, there is a risk of loosing important data and drivers as well as a costly process.

A bit of free advice -

  1. Download and install AVAST! Home Edition. It's free for home use, just need a free registration every 12 months. This is by far the best free anti-virus I have come across. We have been running this software for 4 years and NEVER had a virus infect a PC (without user consent!). It outperforms Norton / Symantec, AVG and many other home targeted anti-virus systems.
  2. After installing Avast, go into the menu and select to schedule a boot-time scan - This will detect and remove any files which are normally in use during windows. Also unplug and internet connections while this is in operation.
  3. Another usefull free program is Microsoft Defender. Download it here. This is an anti-spyware / malware program which intergrates with Windows XP. Defender is pre-installed on Windows Vista so no need to download it. Once installed open the program and run the software explorer (also accessible through the control panel) and check the startup programs. Anything in the list which appears unusual then you are able to disable it. Hint: Look at the file patch to see what file it is running. Most viruses or malware have a spurious name such as spdgxzy.dll. If so remove it and performa nother DOS Scan with Avast.

If the above advise is a little beyond your capabilities or after following those steps you still have a problem then please contact us and we can take a closer look. We have repaired many PC's and have managed to remove every instance of Malware or virus which we have come across without the need to re-inatall the operating system. If you're PC is suffering, please contact us and we will see what we can do for you.