can't find Winlogon.exe

[R S]

I have a problem with my new computer. Everytime i start XP i get a message
that C:\Windows\winlogon.exe can't be found..can this be fixed?

 

[Patrick Keenan]

I have a problem with my new computer. Everytime i start XP i get a message
that C:\Windows\winlogon.exe can't be found..can this be fixed?

Yes, but what needs to be fixed is actually the remnants of a malware
infection.

Winlogon.exe is a critical system file needed to start your system, but it
isn't in the Windows directory, it's in windows\system32

So what's happened is that some malware placed a bogus copy of that file in
the windows folder, your A/V software noticed and removed it, but the
launcher reference is still there.

You can use msconfg to locate the launcher reference, then remove it
manually. As well, you should clear out all the temporary files and
temporary internet files folders on your system, empty the recycle bin, and
re-scan your system with updated A/V software.

HTH
-pk

 

[R S]

Yes, but what needs to be fixed is actually the remnants of a malware
infection.

Winlogon.exe is a critical system file needed to start your system, but it
isn't in the Windows directory, it's in windows\system32

So what's happened is that some malware placed a bogus copy of that file in
the windows folder, your A/V software noticed and removed it, but the
launcher reference is still there.

You can use msconfg to locate the launcher reference, then remove it
manually. As well, you should clear out all the temporary files and
temporary internet files folders on your system, empty the recycle bin, and
re-scan your system with updated A/V software.

HTH
-pk

Ok thanks for your answer, but how can I do this and what should I do about
it?