1. Uninstall SP2 via Add/Remove Programs and reboot.
2. Run a thorough check for hijackware, including posting your HijackThis
log to an appropriate forum.
Check for Hijackware
http://aumha.org/a/parasite.htm
http://aumha.org/a/quickfix.htm
http://mvps.org/winhelp2002/unwanted.htm
http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/Darnit.htm
http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/Malware_Defence.htm
http://defendingyourmachine.blogspot.com/
When all else fails, HijackThis
(
http://aumha.net/downloads/hijackthis.zip) is the preferred tool to use.
It will help you to both identify and remove any hijackware/spyware.
**Post your HijackThis log to
http://forums.spywareinfo.com/,
http://castlecops.com/forum67.html,
http://aumha.net/viewforum.php?f=30 or
other appropriate forum for expert analysis, not here.**
3. Do not install SP2 until an expert gives your HijackThis log a clean
bill of health.
Also see:
What to Know Before Downloading/Installing SP2
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/sp2_whattoknow.mspx
Installing SP2 Step-by-Step
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;[ln];xpsp2insthowto
Troubleshooting Your Installation
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;[ln];xpsp2insttshoot
WinXP SP2 FAQ: What to do after installing SP2
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;ln;xpsp2installed
Service Pack (any) Installation Checklist (MVP Jupiter Jones)
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/spackins.htm
WinXP SP2-specific Page (MVP Jupiter Jones)
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/xpsp2.htm
The hard disk space requirements for Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=837783
--
~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
MS MVP-Windows (IE/OE, Shell/User, Security), Aumha.org VSOP, DTS-L.org
Hi:
I removed SP 2 by using Add/Remove.
However, I still have 'Beta' and other 'Security,' because
before SP 2 arrived, I installed those by using 'Downloading.'
When I went to Add/Remove, ... surely SP 2(everything) was gone.
Before SP 2, I installed 'SystemWorks'(Norton), SpySweeper,
WinCleaner along with 'Beta' and others(malicious).
I don't have a good knowledge as to 'defense' against professional type
of 'virus.' However, when the computer started/restarted after SP 2,
I.E. along with 'Dial-up' didn't come up. Also, everything getting VERY
slow that frightened me, ... losing everything in the computer, ...
'Crash."
note) Strangely, one of three HP computers(I love HP brand) works like
a charm after SP 2. Only one HP getting along with SP 2. Rest has no
cooperation with SP 2 whatsoever. All three has EXACT same programs
and security programs.
Any answer would be grateful on this discripancy.