Windows Problems

  • Thread starter Thread starter dunaway
  • Start date Start date
D

dunaway

I am having the following problems and don't know what to
do next. I have had two discussions/working sessions
with Dell and they suggest reinstallation of my operating
system. Here are the problems:

1. Running programs not showing on taskbar.
2. Blank screen for System Restore
3. Nothing at all coming up for Help and Support.
4. Nothing showing for Network Connections, inlcuding no
icon on the taskbar although I can get on and off the
internet by reconfiguring my ISP every time I get on.

After running an online scan and deleting 12 or so
corrupted files and running a spyware scan where I
deleted 10,000 or so files, I still have the same
problems.

Do I need to reinstall Windows XP altogther or in repair
mode? or could I try to download the newest Service Pack
and hope that some files may be helpful?

Any thoughts on this?

desperate,
d. dunaway
 
Your system has been seriously compromised. You should perform a clean
install of Windows and all your software. This means completely erasing your
hard disk and starting from scratch. Be sure to backup every file and folder
that is important to you before you start. Do not restore these files and
folders until you have scanned them for viruses and malware.

Fortunately for you, Dell includes complete installation CDs for all the
software that was installed on your computer when you received it. Moreover,
Dell's web site has complete tick-by-tick instructions on how to install all
the software. You'll find it here:

"Dell Software Reinstall Guide"
http://tinyurl.com/47gdg

Once you are up and running, you really need to learn how to protect your
computer from viruses and other malware. Look here for help:

"Protect Your PC"
www.microsoft.com/protect
 
To"Rocky": Thank you, thank you, thank you. Can you
tell me how to erase my hard disk? Is this something I
can trust myself with?
 
Like I said/wrote: Just follow the directions on Dell's web site. The
Windows XP installation CD takes care of everything, including erasing your
hard disk.

You can absolutely do this. Dell's instructions are written in clear, simple
language. All you need to add is a little common sense:

1. Backup everything that is important to you - you're never going to see it
again otherwise.
2. Prepare yourself thoroughly: Read all the directions before you start and
make sure you understand them completely. Print all the directions (they are
many pages long), as you won't have access to your computer while you're
working.
3. Make sure you have all the CDs that came with your computer.
4. Take your time. You're going to be spending at least 2 - 3 hours to do
this. Better to go slow.

Doing a clean install is a little like getting your first kiss: Before you
do it you are filled with anxiety; after it's over you have new found
confidence.

Some tips:
1. Disconnect from the Internet before you start, and disconnect all
peripherals except your monitor, keyboard and mouse.
2. Once you are done, make sure that Internet Connection Firewall is turned
on, then connect to the Internet and go directly to Windows Update to get
your security updates. This step may take an hour or more.
3. After your computer is updated, turn it off and install antivirus
software. Learn how to use it. Obtain updated virus signatures from the
manufacturer's web site, then scan your computer for viruses.

To get a preview of what lies ahead, read this:

"Windows XP Clean Install (Interactive Setup)"
http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/windowsxp_sg_clean.asp
 
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