Dowloading problems

[THR]

I'm having trouble with certain downloading situations. Using XP Home on a
Dell Inspiron 600m.
First off, I can go to a website and download files. Also, Microsoft Update
functions properly.
I first noticed the problem when I decided to switch from Norton Virus
Protection to McAfee. I uninstalled the Norton product, using their
uninstall program.
Then went to McAfee website and purchased product. When I tried installing
it on line, I got an odd error message that said I wasn't connected to the
internet. McAfee tech support was no help and I gave up on that. I also
tried saving the install file to my desktop and installing from there, but
got the same unsuccessful result.
Downloaded Avira free virus protection software. The program downloaded
without a problem. But during the installation process it requires a
registration. When I tried to complete that process, I got another "Not
connected to the internet" message. I restarted in safe mode with
networking, and was able to complete the installation process without problem.
Now when I try to update Avira, I get a message that there's a problem with
the connection.
I got a message to update Adobe Flash, but when I clicked on the Update Now
button, I got a message that says I'm not connected to the internet.
Throughout all these processes, I "really" have been connected to the
internet. It appears the problem comes when I try to use a download process
within an installation.
Things I've tried, in no particular order:
Full virus scan shows nothing amiss;
All Microsoft Updates have been installed;
Tried a System Restore back to June (earliest available choice);
Kicked and stomped on computer.
None of these were successful, except the last one made me feel better.
As I said, there was one situation where I was able to complete the process
by restarting in safe mode with networking. But, for example, I can't update
Avira in that manner because the required parts of the program don't load in
safe mode.
Sorry this went on so long, but am trying to make sure I give a complete
description. Any ideas????
Thanks.

 

[neil]

When you say you used Norton uninstall program was that from control panels
add/remove. There is a clean up tool to completely remove Norton products
http://www.symantec.com/en/uk/norto...sp?wv_type=public_web&docurl=20080710133834EN

Neil

 

[Richard]

I'm having trouble with certain downloading situations. Using XP Home
on a Dell Inspiron 600m.
First off, I can go to a website and download files. Also, Microsoft
Update functions properly.
I first noticed the problem when I decided to switch from Norton Virus
Protection to McAfee. I uninstalled the Norton product, using their
uninstall program.

See below for complete Norton removal instructions.

Then went to McAfee website and purchased product. When I tried
installing it on line, I got an odd error message that said I wasn't
connected to the internet. McAfee tech support was no help and I gave
up on that. I also tried saving the install file to my desktop and
installing from there, but got the same unsuccessful result.

Downloaded Avira free virus protection software. The program downloaded
without a problem. But during the installation process it requires a
registration. When I tried to complete that process, I got another "Not
connected to the internet" message. I restarted in safe mode with
networking, and was able to complete the installation process without
problem.

Now when I try to update Avira, I get a message that there's a problem
with the connection.
I got a message to update Adobe Flash, but when I clicked on the Update
Now button, I got a message that says I'm not connected to the internet.

You should disable Flash for now, and run Internet Explorer in no addons
mode. Uninstall any 3rd party toolbars for now also.

Throughout all these processes, I "really" have been connected to the
internet. It appears the problem comes when I try to use a download
process within an installation.
Things I've tried, in no particular order:
Full virus scan shows nothing amiss;
All Microsoft Updates have been installed;
Tried a System Restore back to June (earliest available choice);
Kicked and stomped on computer.
None of these were successful, except the last one made me feel better.
As I said, there was one situation where I was able to complete the
process by restarting in safe mode with networking. But, for example,
I can't update Avira in that manner because the required parts of the
program don't load in safe mode.
Sorry this went on so long, but am trying to make sure I give a complete
description. Any ideas????
Thanks.

How to uninstall Norton products:

1. Download the Norton Removal Tool, to your desktop (do NOT Run it yet.)
http://service1.symantec.com/SUPPORT/tsgeninfo.nsf/docid/2005033108162039
2. Disconnect from the internet and close all programs, and REBOOT.
3. Uninstall Norton with Control Panel> Add/Remove Programs.
4. IMMEDIATELY enable the Windows Firewall!
5. Double-click on the file you saved in #1 above to run the utility. Do
NOT touch your keyboard until the run has completed, then REBOOT (again).
6. Install better antivirus, such as Eset's NOD32, Kaspersky or Avast!

FREE Home Edition Avast! antivirus - anti-spyware protection
http://www.avast.com/eng/avast-free-home-antivirus-antispyware.html

You mentioned you were using XP Home edition. What Service Pack? SP3?

You did not mention HOW you connect to the internet? dialup?

Is your computer part of a local network?

Important: Download MBAM, update, and run the FULL scan:
FREE Malwarebytes anti-malware
http://www.malwarebytes.org/mbam.php

There is some excellent information here:
http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/page2.html#Removing_Malware

HTH. (Hope This Helps.
--Richard