msconfig appears in task manager, but fails to open on desktop

[hselburn]

Hello,

I'm running a malware scan as we speak, and I also have some Stardock Object
Desktop software which I understand may contribute to my issue, but
presently, I can type msconfig in run, and it will appear in the windows task
manager, but it wont actually open on the desktop. I do backup, and I have a
backup of the pchealth folder so I "could" restore from there but I'm curious
if there is anything else I should check first. I've uninstalled Stardock's
Impulse and windowblinds per another's suggestion but my issue remains. Any
assisance would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!
hselburn

 

[Leonard Grey]

Make sure that your anti-malware software is running, then download the
latest signatures and run a full scan.

If you don't have comprehensive anti-malware software, that's like
driving a car without seats belts or air bags. 'Comprehensive'
anti-malware software scans for all types of malicious software in the
background, on demand and on schedule

For now try scanning your system with /several/ of the better online
scanners, such as:
Kaspersky Antivirus (http://www.kaspersky.com/virusscanner)
Panda ActiveScan (http://www.pandasoftware.com/activescan)

Download HijackThis from www.trendsecure.com. Run it, save a log, and
post the log at one of the many sites that support HJT, such as
spywarewarrior.com, bleepingcomputer.com, and http://aumha.net -- but
not here. Within a day you'll have step-by-step advice from an expert on
cleaning up any malware infestations.

Even the best detection and removal software can't fix every malware
infection. If none of the above remove the infection, you may want to
show the computer to a professional. You might need to erase your hard
drive and start over.

 

[hselburn]

So far, AdAware and Vipre (I have Kapersky via ZoneAlarm Security Suite as
well and will use that next) have found no sign of malware that would have
done this. I am in fact considering a new install of XP although I do have
Acronis True Image and have a backup of XPSP3.

Thanks!
hselburn

 

[Elmo]

Hello,

I'm running a malware scan as we speak, and I also have some Stardock Object
Desktop software which I understand may contribute to my issue, but
presently, I can type msconfig in run, and it will appear in the windows task
manager, but it wont actually open on the desktop. I do backup, and I have a
backup of the pchealth folder so I "could" restore from there but I'm curious
if there is anything else I should check first. I've uninstalled Stardock's
Impulse and windowblinds per another's suggestion but my issue remains. Any
assistance would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!
hselburn

Open msconfig, then right-click the Taskbar, click "Cascade Windows".
That might bring it into view.