Category Archives: Spyware and Viruses

Understanding Spyware And Do You Have It?

What is spyware? It’s any type of technology that collects and gathers information on an individual without the person knowing. These spyware are at times called spybots, or even tracking software. How does it get onto your computer? You know those pop-up ads that come up all the time, well a lot of those will install spyware onto your computer just with a simple click. At times you may get adware on your computer, the companies who’s ad’s cause the addition of adware to your computer don’t like it being called spyware, but really it’s got the same results as spyware, collecting and gathering of information.

Another potential way spyware can access your computer is a software virus, or perhaps the installation of a new program you recently added.

Cookies will store information about anyone who is using the internet on your computer. However at times websites will store the information from you in a cookie also, without your knowledge, thus the cookie would be spyware. Spyware happens to be one of the public’s biggest concerns when it comes to your privacy on the Internet.

One of the biggest infestations of spyware took place in 1999, a free game called “Elf Bowling” was extremely popular, however people didn’t realize when they downloaded the game they also downloaded tracking software.

How do you know that you have spyware on your computer? Check out the following signs:

You see pop-ups a lot. Usually when you open up websites your going to see a few pop-ups, but if you start to see a whole bunch and they aren’t even related to the website your viewing, usually adult websites. You may have spyware or even some other unwanted software.

Your settings have changed and you can’t get them back to the previous way. Certain spyware can change your home or search page settings without you agreeing to it. It may let you switch the settings back, but when you go and restart your computer the settings will be back to the unwanted settings.

Web browser has more components then you downloaded. Spyware can add more toolbars to your browser that you haven’t added yourself. Again you may be able to remove these, but upon restart they may be back again.

Your computer is slow. Spyware will affect the efficiency of your computer. Perhaps a program may continually crash, or your computer is just overall slower you most likely have spyware on your computer.

There are several places to look online to help you learn how to remove the unwanted spyware or other software from your computer. There are software’s to purchase out there to that will help to avoid another spyware infection. Just try and not download a program that you’re not sure about, this will help in not getting that nasty spyware on your computer. You can ask all your friends spyware is prominent in a lot of unknown downloads, perhaps with a bit of communication you can avoid these spyware infections, or help your friends not get caught by the same problem!

Discover more about computers and windows xp registry cleaner from his website. He shares some of the things he learned in 10 years experience. Visit http://www.registryheal.com/

How To Make a Bootable AntiVirus Disc

Why Bootable Antivirus?
In a bootable environment we are running a stripped down version of windows in a ram disk (programs are loaded directly into ram), thus the hard drive on the PC is treated as attached storage (like a flash drive).

In this state malware (malware consists of viruses, trojans, spyware, adware, rootkits, etc) is helpless and totally at your mercy. This is the best free way to remove any piece of malware with a 100% success rate.

Steps:
Please follow all the steps below:

1. Go to www.ubcd4win.com, then go to downloads.
2. Select a mirror with a green status. (like Mirror3 for example)
3. When you click on the mirror it will take you to another site where the download will be available.
4. Click the download link for Ultimate Boot CD and save the download to wherever you download stuff.
5. Once the installer has been downloaded double click it.

6. Choose your language
7. Click next about 3 more times and select the file path where you would like to install ultimate boot cd 4 win. Please note that you should have a drive with at least 5-10 gb of free space to allow for future plugin growth. I will choose C:UBCD4Win. The install should take a few minutes.
8. Click Yes to the MD5 Hash Check. The install will continue once the hash check succeeds.
9. Click Yes to see if a patch file exists.
10. Click the checkbox to launch ubcd4winbuilder.exe.

11. Click the “i agree” button.
12. Click “NO” to searching for windows files.
13. Obtain a windows xp operating system disc w/SP2.
14. Explore the disc and copy the entire content (all the folders and files on the windows xp cd) to any location on your computer. You should allocate at least 700 MB of free space for the windows xp disc.
15. Open UBCD4win (if it’s not already open). Click Source browse button (3 dots) and browse to your i386 folder. My path was C:WindowsXPcd for example.
16. Next go to the media output section and choose a spot for your ISO image to be created. This ISO can be burned with almost any burning software. Once the ISO is burned it will be bootable.
17. Next, click the plugins button. Don’t be too overwhelmed here, actually you should be very happy! Look at all those plugins!
18. Now it’s time to update our anti-malware software packages.
19. The first one I have on my list is a-squared free anti-spyware. Click that line and then click the config button. A command prompt will automatically open and start downloading the latest updates for that program, totally awesome, isn’t it!

20. So, now you need to update all the anti-malware programs in our plugin list. Click each one and then hit the config button.
21. After you’re done configing/updating your plugins click the close button.
22. Next, click Build.
23. Click yes to create a directory and then click i agree.
24. At this point your ISO is created and is ready to be burned.

Matthew Rizos writes daily articles on how to remove malware using free anti-malware software at:
Malware Removal
Services are also provided remotley at:
St. Louis Computer Repair

Quick and Effective Microsoft Trojan Removal

Microsoft Trojan removal is a necessary part of having a computer. If your computer is running much slower than usual, you are getting spam or pop up ads, or your PC is freezing, crashing, or delayed in response, these are good signs that you have threats that need to be removed on your computer. Some of the other symptoms include:

1. New toolbars appear in your web browser
2. Strange software programs load when you start the PC
3. You are taken to websites that you did not request
4. You have new sites on your favorites list that you did not add
5. Your mouse button functions are reversed
6. Your mouse leaves a trail on your screen
7. Your modem light blinks out of control even when you are not online
8. Windows is loading slowly
9. Internet Explorer is extremely slow
10. Consistent error messages appear

The challenge is finding Trojans as they like to take refuge in spyware and adware and often blend to the point that they are not recognized. These files can take over your computer and make your life miserable if not dealt with. Not only will computer performance become a problem, but identity theft also becomes a concern.

In addition to Microsoft Trojan removal, the following steps will also show you how to detect and remove other forms of spyware, adware, malware, browser hijackers, trackware, spy programs, hacker tools, keyloggers, spybot worms, and other threats.

Task One: Create a Checklist of Errors and Symptoms You Have on Your PC

Many people think this step is a waste of time, but in my opinion it gives you a measurement of how many items are changed on your computer after the repair versus before. You will then have a good idea of what was fixed by the steps below. You can then find additional solutions for remaining problems, which I will discuss in a few moments.

Think of the who, what, when, where and why of your computer problems. Just jot down anything that you have noticed as funny over time on your computer. Once you have a relatively complete list, move on to task number two.

Task Two: Locate a Quality Spyware Software that Contains a Free Scanning Tool

Do not get overwhelmed. This step seems like a lot to ask since most people are not well versed in what software to use to complete Microsoft Trojan removal. If you are not sure of what to look for, there is added stress to the process.

There are a handful of vital features to look for when choosing a product for the free scan. The most important is the size (item number) of the definitions database. This is the solutions database that recognizes and locates the threats and eliminates them with existing solutions contained in the software. Find a product with at least 250,000 items in the database.

Another key feature to look for is one that can do more than Microsoft Trojan removal, but also the other threat types mentioned (keyloggers, adware, malware, spyware, etc).

Finally, find a product that is easy to both download and to understand once the interface is loaded on your computer. The user interface should have easy to understand navigation and have explanations for what each function does.

You can make the decision of whether or not you want real time protection (that has ongoing protection) versus an on demand scan (where you choose when to scan). The advantage of real time is obvious constant protection against some threats attempting to load, versus an on demand that removes ones already on your PC. The advantage of an on-demand scan is that you can determine when to use the feature instead of having your system drag when the real time feels like scanning. Plus, on demand scans do not tie up as much of your system resources (causing slow downs).

Once you choose a software program for Microsoft Trojan removal, download the interface and do the most complete scanning level it offers. If you have threats that are detected, you can move on to the next step. If there are very few threats, you can make a decision about whether or not to get the full version of the software. It is always a good idea to get the software anyway as it should be a piece of every computer owner annual maintenance plan on their computer as cyber thieves never sleep and look ways for ways to hurt you.

Task Three: Do the Repair

This is the easiest step of the process. If you detected threats on your system, now all you will need to do is purchase the repair function of the software, which gives you a one year unlimited use with most quality software programs. Simply follow the prompts that the software gives you until you arrive at the payment screen. Choose one computer or coverage for multiples and get the software.

After running the repair (which only takes seconds), you will see the results page. You can then simply restart your PC and you will see the new results. Go back to your initial checklist and see how many of the items on your list were repaired. Keep in mind that no single software plan is a miracle cure. You can try a second scan and repair round, or if you are serious about having proper protection on your computer, purchase a good registry repair software, general virus scan, and of course spyware software that was just used for the Microsoft Trojan removal.

Daryl Moore specializes in reviews on anti spyware and adware software and writes straight forward reviews of top products at www.solutions-to-remove-spyware.com. Complete details on the top product reviewed, Xoftspyse, can be found at www.xoftspyse-facts.com

Quick and Easy Online Trojan Scan and Repair

If online Trojan scan and repair is a necessity for you, follow the steps in this article to get your computer fixed and running like new again in 10 minutes or so.

Trojan viruses are incredibly difficult to remove due to the way they disguise themselves on computers. They are usually hidden in spyware and adware and are missed by most virus scan products. The most effective way to do Trojan scan and repair is to utilize a quality software program.

It is advised to avoid free products that can attach even more spyware and adware on your system (through your permission in the End User License Agreement). There is always a cost to free!

If you are considering doing the removal on your own, make sure that you have good experience with exe (executable) files or you could be causing yourself more trouble than its worth in the long run. It is always an extremely inefficient use of your time.

If you are not so sure that online Trojan scan and repair is needed, the list below will share some common symptoms, though there are many more:

1. Randomly opening files
2. Slow, crashing, or freezing computer problems exist
3. Redirection to websites you did not request
4. Your normal home page is substituted with an adult site or others
5. Automatically loaded Tool bars and pop-ups are placed on your system
6. Mouse cursor leaves a shadow or the functions of the buttons on the mouse are reversed
7. Start up and other buttons on the PC fade
8. Your computer shuts off or reboots on its own
9. Alt + Control + Delete does not work properly (if at all)
10. Your internet is slow and annoying

No matter if you think that online Trojan scan and repair is necessary, it is always a good idea to have a spyware and adware protection software on your system at all times. Cyber-thieves are working 24 hours a day to figure out to annoy you and steal your personal information. You should have software that fights back.

If you are ready for an online Trojan scan and repair, this article will detail the tasks vital to getting your PC running correctly again in the least amount of time.

Step One: Write Down all of the Challenges You Are Having on Your PC

This step serves the sole purpose of giving you a measure both before and after repair so that you can track your results. This will also let you know if additional resources are needed to get you 100 percent repaired, though a good spyware and adware software should make a huge difference.

Just jot down any problems you have noticed on your computer. Whether it be slow computer problems, slow internet, or any of the symptoms above, write it down. Include when it happens most often and if only under certain users.

After the final step of this process, go back and check the results against your list.

Step Two: Take Advantage of a Free Online Trojan Scan Software

There are a number of great adware spyware uninstall products that offer free scans. The goal for choosing such a product is to aim for one that offers a good sized definitions database of 250,000 items or more. This is a solutions database that can match problems on your computers to logged definitions in the database to detect and remove the problems.

What Features are Important?

When choosing a an anti spyware program to utilize, locate one that offers ease in download and use (so you can use without help files), one that contains detailed help files (either local or online), a product with an extensive definitions (solutions) database, and be sure to use Google or other search engines to search the product by name to ensure that there are good reviews and very little negative written about the software. Obviously you will find a few disgruntled users who want a miracle cure for the abuse their PC has taken over time, but just make sure that there is not a huge amount of negative mentions.

Step Three: If Threats are Found Just Invest in the Repair Utility of the Same Product

This step is easy. The time consuming part was locating, downloading and utilizing the free scan of the software. Now the only goal is to purchase the software and complete the repair. A scan result page will pop up that will display threat category, level of severity, and should provide complete details about the threat type.

Even if lots of errors are not found at this time, you will still want the ongoing protection offered, as mentioned earlier. The software used for online Trojan scan and repair can also remove malware, keyloggers, worms, pop-ups, and additional threats that have infected your computer. It is always a great idea to scan at least weekly to keep the nasty items off your PC.

I would not be too insistent on getting real-time protection. The challenge that most products that include real time function is the huge demand they place on your system resources, loading down the speed of the computer, especially when combined with general virus scan and registry cleaners. They decrease your computer speed on their schedule, not yours.

Place your attention on locating software with a huge definitions database, again, with at least 250,000 files. This will increase your chances of locating and eliminating errors the first time around.

After completing online Trojan scan and repair, reboot your computer to see the changes. Compare your initial list to your new results. Threats are ongoing on your system, so with your software purchase you can now stay on top of the new infections being added to your computer. Still, you should see a noticeable difference in performance and the speed of your computer.

If challenges still exist, try another repair round. You can also add a few other types of software that will serve as a good all around system protection including registry repair software, general virus scanning software, and of course spyware and adware software. If one product makes a great difference, just think what multiple levels of protection and repair can do for you?

Online Trojan scan and repair is that easy. You will have the job done in under 10 minutes.

Daryl Moore specializes in reviews on anti spyware and adware software and writes straight forward reviews of top products at www.trojan-remover-tips.com. Complete details on the top product reviewed, Xoftspyse, can be found at www.xoftspyse-facts.com

Spyware Fix in Three Easy and Effective Steps

Spyware fix is not really a choice for us, but rather a requirement due to the number of cyber thieves injecting infectious files onto our computers.

Some of the spyware is used to track our online behaviors and others are intended to be destructive and annoying. No matter what the intention, our only hope of keeping up with the threats is to consistently complete a spyware fix process on a continual basis. From surfing to free downloads, it does not take long before our computer performance is decreased and we are getting redirected to websites we did not request.

If you have slow computer problems, consistent pop-ups with ads, or crashing or freezing computer issues, you are in need of a solid spyware fix.

The steps below will guide you forward to get spyware removed and will help you get your computer operating at peak capacity again.

Step One: List any symptoms or problems you have observed on your computer

Some of the signs of the presence of spyware, adware, and malware include files opening randomly, annoying toolbars and pop-ups are loaded without your request, keyloggers tracking your personal details through your keystrokes (identity theft), your computer has browser hijackers and you are redirected to sites you did not want, your PC is no stable leading to crashes and freezes, or your system settings are being changed without your request.

The list above will get your started. Make sure to list when and how the problems occur (if you know). The purpose of this step is to give us a foundational list to compare to after the spyware fix is complete.

Step Two: Locate a Quality Spyware Fix Product and Do a Free Scan

The top spyware and adware software products will detect and remove spyware, adware, malware, keyloggers, browser hijackers, Trojans, worms, and pop-up generators. The key is locating one with these features, and most quality programs offer a free scan so you can check for errors without having to pay (until the repair phase).

Once errors are found, a scan display screen will come up that will show the threat name, severity level, a basic description of the threat, and will have a link to more information about the threat. You can choose which to keep and which to rid of. Be careful to save the files that have a familiar name (related to files you use often).

It is good decision to get your mindset off free software. Most free software programs get your permission to inject additional spyware and adware by your consent through the EULA (End User License Agreement). Many people do not take time to read EULA provisions and end up agreeing to have adware installed on their PC that can monitor their web behaviors. In other words, free is not always free.

Step Three: Invest in the Repair Function of the Same Software

To conduct the spyware fix, the only remaining main step is to run the repair function of the software that just did the scan. This is an easy process but does require payment. The payment will get you a one year license so you will have ongoing protection. The repair portion of the process is extremely fast since all of the hard work has already been done.

You can decide from the scan results whether or not you want to make the purchase, but as mentioned, ongoing protection is a must on computers as part of your annual operating plan. There are simply too many threats added daily to avoid ongoing spyware fix steps.

After completing the repair on your computer, ensure that you have your settings in the software set up to scan at regular intervals at times that work for you. In addition, be sure to limit your exposure to websites that may inject more spyware and adware into your system. Especially avoid free downloads that could compromise your system.

To complete the entire process, reboot your PC for the changes to be applied. After the repair and restart of your computer, compare your results to the list you originally created.

If there are still symptoms, try another scan and repair round or get a quality registry repair software as another level of protection for your system as the Windows registry is like the brain center of your computer for files and user preferences and can become bloated and causes problems with performance. Spyware fix software and registry software together will create a great level of protection and is well worth the investment.

Daryl Moore specializes in reviews on anti spyware and adware software and writes straight forward reviews of top products at www.solutions-to-remove-spyware.com. Complete details on the top product reviewed, Xoftspyse, can be found at www.xoftspyse-facts.com

Trojan Virus Fix in Three Quick Steps

Trojan virus fix can be difficult at times because of the sneaky way that Trojan horse viruses attach themselves to your computer. They usually mask themselves as either adware or spyware files, and are difficult for most general virus scan and repair products to locate and remove.

The key is to locate a quality anti-spyware software product that can do the job for you. Many people choose to attempt Trojan virus fix by themselves to save a couple of dollars, which is admirable, but a headache if you do not have working experience with executable files. Larger problems could be created.

The other popular route is for people to find a free spyware program, which has a backside as well for the majority of the products. In many of the free software programs, EULAs (End User License Agreements) gets your confirmed permission to inject adware onto your PC, which can cause system instabilities. There are some good free products but the choices are few without a catch.

If you are not sure if Trojans are on your PC, the following list contains some common symptoms that can demonstrate the need for Trojan Virus Fix:

1. Random files open
2. You are experiencing slow computer problems
3. You are being sent to websites you did not want to visit
4. Your current homepage was just changed to an adult site (or an unwanted one)
5. Annoying pop ups and toolbars are all appearing
6. Mouse cursor has a trail or has the right and left button functions reversed
7. Navigation buttons disappear on your PC
8. Computer reboots or shuts down on its own
9. Alt + Control + Delete is not responding
10. Your internet is moving extremely slowly

Three Steps to Trojan Virus Fix:

Step One: Enter All of Your Current Computer Issues onto a List

Though you may think that this step has nothing to do with having your problems fixed, a starting measurement of issues can be useful when assessing the effectiveness at the completion of the steps in this article. Keep in mind that spyware software will not alone fix every problem that your computer has, but it can make a difference in a large portion of the issues.

Notice details like when the problems occur the most (during start up or while on the internet) and if the issues occur during use with a particular program. The list above can guide your initial thoughts, but obviously expand your list.

Step Two: Select a Free Scan Option for the Trojan Virus Fix

Deciding on a Trojan removal product can seem intimidating because of all of the choices on the internet. The fact remains that there are several great products that can complete the scan and repair for you with fantastic results.

When deciding on software for this step, look for one that is not complex, one that offers extensive assistance files (local or online), a software that contains a large solutions (definitions) database, and a product that has received good online reviews with very little negative mentions online. Obviously, you will see some negative since the internet allows anyone to post anything, but look to see how many complaints exist.

Once you decide on a scanning tool, choose the scanning start option and allow the software to turn up a list of detailed threats to your computer. Check the severity level of the threats. Trojan virus fix starts with understanding what problems and threat levels already exist.

Step Three: If Threats are Found, Invest in the Repair Function of the Software

If you have already downloaded and scanned, you are 99 percent done with the time investment necessary. The repair itself only takes seconds. The removal of Trojans is confirmed by rerunning the scan immediately after repair. The higher the threat levels, the more vital it is to get the problem fixed.

Keep in mind that it is always good to have a computer protection plan in place throughout the year, not just when symptoms have impacted your computer in a negative way. Trojan virus fix is only a small portion of the concern. A quality spyware removal product will handle Trojans, adware, malware, keyloggers, browser hijackers, worms, and pop-up generators. You will also want to consider a registry repair software since your Windows registry is the brain center of your file organization and user preferences in the computer. Finally, if you have it in the budget, look at getting a general virus protection program. You will have a triple protection through these three directions.

If you just want the current challenges fixed, the most important feature to look for is a good sized definitions database of 250,000 items that can detect and remove threats. The definitions database is basically the items that can recognize problems so that they can be removed. It is a lot like if you had to look up a certain medical condition to get it cured and a large medical dictionary will exceed the information found in a small one.

Once you complete the repair on your PC, restart your system to allow the changes to take effect. Refer back to your list from step one and see how many of the problems were eliminated completely. If some of the issues still exist, rerun the scan and repair, and again, it might be a wise move to add some general virus protection to the mix. Still, there should be a noticeable difference in the performance of the computer just from the steps mentioned here. Trojan virus fix is that simple.

Daryl Moore specializes in reviews on anti spyware and adware software and writes straight forward reviews of top products at www.trojan-remover-tips.com. Complete details on the top product reviewed, Xoftspyse, can be found at www.xoftspyse-facts.com

Removal of Trojans in Three Quick and Easy Steps

The removal of Trojans can be elusive in standard virus scan software because of the disguised file form that they take on your computer, which is the reason they are called Trojans. Once triggered, it is difficult to remove them from your computer without the assistance of a repair utility.

Trojans are often injected in your PC in the form of spyware and adware. Some of the virus programs can detect the files but most have a miserable time removing them.

A few of the many symptoms telling you Trojans or spyware are present include:

1. Files open randomly
2. Slow computer problems are evident
3. Redirection to websites that are not requested
4. Your normal homepage is hijacked to another site (sometimes adult sites)
5. Toolbars are automatically loaded as well as pop-ups
6. Mouse cursor is leaving a trail or the right and left buttons are reversed
7. Buttons like the Windows start button disappear
8. Your computer reboots or shuts off by itself
9. Alt + Control + Delete is no longer working
10. Your web surfing is incredibly slow

There are a variety of articles on the internet giving the steps to Do it yourself Trojan removal. If you are unsure of your skills in dealing with executable files, steer away and follow the simplified steps offered below so you do not create larger problems for yourself.

Three Steps to the Removal of Trojans:

Step One: Log the Problems that You Have Noticed

This may seem like a useless waste of time but it is not. It is important to get a baseline measure of the problems you are encountering so you can monitor the difference once the final repair steps are complete.

If you are experiencing slow computer problems, write down details about when the problems occur the most. For example, some people have the slowest computer problems right after start up. See the above symptoms as a general starting point.

Step Two: Choose One of the Best Trojan Remover Products for a Free Scan

Choosing the best Trojan remover software can seem like a daunting task. To be completely truthful, there are a number of quality products that can do a through job for you. The focus should be on choosing a product that does well across a variety of categories since there is no so called best Trojan remover.

When choosing software look for a product that is easy to understand, one with detailed help files (local or online), a product with a huge definitions (solutions) database, and one with good reviews and without a ton of negative press online.

Once you locate a product to scan with, run the most complete scan offered to get a detailed list of threats and level of severity. Removal of Trojans and other parasites starts with getting a good read on the existing problems already attached to your system.

Step Three: If Errors are Detected, Purchase the Full Version

The download and the initial scan are the time dominators of the entire process. Once errors are detected, removal of Trojans is the quick task. Pay attention to the severity of the threats detected. The more threats detected, the more vital it is to get the errors cleared.

Whether you have a huge list of infections is not important. It is extremely important to stay covered by quality software all year long. Get in the habit of running the can and repair at least once a week. It is not vital to choose a product with real-time protection (detecting items before they lodge themselves onto your system), but more important to choose a product with a good definitions database that can detect and conduct the removal of Trojans.

After conducting the repair, be sure to restart your system. Go back to your initial list and compare the changes for each item conducted. If you are still having some of the errors, it could be useful to look into a general virus scan and registry scanning software to add to your maintenance plan.

There should be a measurable improvement to the speed of your computer from the first round of repair.

Daryl Moore specializes in reviews on anti spyware and adware software and writes straight forward reviews of top products at www.trojan-remover-tips.com/best-trojan-removal-software.htm. Complete details on the top product reviewed, Xoftspyse, can be found at www.xoftspyse-facts.com

Removing Computer Trojans in Three Quick and Effective Steps

Removing computer Trojans is not usually achieved easily through a standard anti virus program due to the sneaky way they attach themselves onto your computer. For this reason they are referred to as Trojans (like Trojan Horse). Once these parasites install on your PC, they can be incredibly difficult to remove without a quality repair utility.

Two of the most common ways which Trojans install on computers are through spyware and adware. Some of the virus programs can detect the files but most have a miserable time removing them.

Trojans can be noticed through a variety of symptoms. Below are some of the common ones:

1. Files opening on their own
2. Slow computer problems exist
3. You are directed to websites that you did not ask for
4. Your default homepage gets hijacked and is replaced with off-color sites
5. Pop-ups and autoload toolbars are automatically placed on your PC
6. Cursor leaves a trail
7. Buttons such as the Windows start button are invisible
8. Your computer shuts down on its own, or reboots at will
9. Alt + Control + Delete is not responding
10. Your web surfing is incredibly slow

Doing your own computer Trojan removals through the use of articles posted on the web (without software) is not advised if you are not confident about working with executable files. Trojan removal can be completed through the following steps without causing additional problems on your computer.

The Three Steps for the Removal of Computer Trojans:

Step One: Document All of the Problems that You Are Currently Experiencing

It is said that 95 percent of the cure is through knowing what the true problems are. By writing down all of the issues that you are currently experiencing, you will give yourself a baseline measure of how well your repair (later steps) addressed the problems you were experiencing.

If your computer is dragging, write down when slow computer problems are the worst for you. For example, if your computer is slowest while using the internet, write that down on your list. Get it all down on paper. You can start with the above symptom list.

Step Two: Complete a Free Scan with a Best Trojan Remover Software

There are a variety of great tools to remove computer Trojans effectively for you. The difference is only slight between the top quality products. The top products can perform well across many major categories.

When you are making a decision about software to complete the free scan through, choose products that are simple to comprehend, one that offers complete help files, software that provides a huge definitions (solutions) database, and look for solid reviews without a bunch of negative coverage on the internet.

Removal of Trojans, spyware, adware and malware begins with understand the current threats and levels of severity of those threats on your computer. You will then know if a repair is needed immediately.

Step Three: If Severe Threats are Found Invest in the Repair Function of the Software

The same software that scanned your computer can be utilized for repair of the system. The download and the scan take the longest in the process, which makes the cleaning of the computer Trojans the most uneventful but important part of the process.

Year round maintenance is recommended including a good anti spyware software, Windows registry software, and a good general virus scan. Between these three products, you will greatly reduce performance and security issues on your PC. It is a good practice to scan and repair your system at steady intervals (at least weekly). To remove spyware, adware, malware, and computer Trojans, look for a product with an extensive definitions database (as mentioned prior).

After the repair is complete, restart your computer to ensure that changes have taken place. After rebooting, review your initial list of problems against the changes that you notice on your computer after the repair. If errors still exist, do not hesitate to run the scan and repair again. It also could be good to look into a registry cleaner or general virus scan as added weapons (as mentioned prior). Your computer should be performing like new again after one or two repair rounds.

Daryl Moore specializes in reviews on anti spyware and adware software and writes straight forward reviews of top products at www.trojan-remover-tips.com/best-trojan-removal-software.htm. Complete details on the top product reviewed, Xoftspyse, can be found at www.xoftspyse-facts.com

How to Remove Trojans from Your Computer in 10 Minutes or Less

Once you understand how to remove Trojans, the process can be duplicated on a daily or weekly basis to keep your computer clean. The average anti virus programs will not remove Trojans easily, so if you have tried that route you may want to read the steps below for additional guidance. When Trojans install themselves on your system, you will need the help of a quality anti spyware software to complete the job.

A couple popular ways that Trojans attach to your computer will be through spyware and adware. This is why standard virus removers will not usually detect or remove such problems.

The list below will describe some of the common symptoms associated with Trojan viruses:

1. Files open randomly
2. You are experiencing slow computer problems
3. Your internet redirects you to sites that were not requested
4. The default home page on your PC is replaced with a tasteless site
5. Automatically loaded tool bars and pop ups appear
6. Your mouse has a trail as you drag it
7. Window start up button and others disappear
8. The PC shuts down without your command, or boots at will
9. Alt + Control + Delete is non operational
10. Your internet is moving like a turtle

It is a good practice to avoid doing your own Trojan removals without software help, no matter how detailed the instructions are that you are following. If you are not well-versed with executable files, save yourself the future pain of a crashed system and follow the steps below.

How to Remove Trojans in Three Steps:

Step One: Write a List of All Symptoms that You Have Noticed

Create a baseline measure of what issues you are experiencing. That way you will know whether or not the steps to follow work the way you hoped. You can compare the results after repair compared to the initial symptoms you have. Keep in mind that no one product is a miracle cure, but many problems will be cleared up from the first time a repair is conducted.

Think of when the symptoms most commonly occur (like start up versus when on the internet) and just write down any strange behaviors that your computer has shown you. You can start with the symptom list above, but do not be limited just to that list.

Step Two: Conduct a Free Scan with a Product Designed to Remove Trojans

The good news is that there are a handful of great products to help you with this step. You do not need to know how to remove Trojans if you have the right software. There are many similarities between top products. The best software programs tend to be effective across a variety of categories.

Look to scan with a software product that is easy to understand, one with extensive help files, ones with a large definitions (solutions) database, and seek ones with a variety of good reviews and not much negative on the search result pages that come up on the net.

If you understand how to remove Trojans, you will also be able to remove other forms of spyware, adware, and malware at the same time. The scan will show results well beyond just Trojans.

Step Three: If Severe Infections are Detected Purchase the Full Version Software

Once you get your results back, see if severe level threats were detected. If so, you should immediately take care of the problems by purchasing the repair utility in the same software that you just completed the scan with. The repair takes seconds compared to the download and scanning process.

I have a year round maintenance plan for my computers that include a solid spyware software, Windows registry cleaner, and a general anti virus program. You can eliminate most of the problems that arise by purchasing these three power tools. I usually scan weekly with each of the three products to keep up with threats on my system. I do not use real-time protection based products due to the system resources that are tied up.

For removal of spyware, adware, malware, and computer Trojans, find a product with extensive definitions database files (as previously mentioned).

Be sure to restart your computer after the repair to make sure that the changes go into effect. Go back to your initial list and see how many of the problems were completely eliminated. Now that you know how to remove Trojans, you can scan and repair additional times to see if additional problems are removed. It might also be a good investment to look into the other tools mentioned above (registry repair and general anti virus).

Daryl Moore specializes in reviews on anti spyware and adware software and writes straight forward reviews of top products at www.trojan-remover-tips.com/best-trojan-removal-software.htm. Complete details on the top product reviewed, Xoftspyse, can be found at www.xoftspyse-facts.com

Computer Problem Tips – Should You Install and Use a Firewall Program?

Hmmm…That would a be a “YEAH”. Let me tell you a story…

I got the call late Friday afternoon. I’ll call them “Momma Fran” and “Poppa Fred”, a retired couple. I had built a computer for them and installed it the past Wednesday. Gosh, I hoped everything was okay with it.

The computer was fine. But it seemed the “Cable Guy” had come to hook-up their Internet service and some thingy called a “firewall?” kept popping up and prevented him from completing the setup.

I told them all the guy had to do was to “ok” the alerts or turn the firewall off all together. They said he had already left and told them they didn’t really need a firewall.

I drove out to their house that evening and tried setting the firewall so it would let the cable company’s software pass thru unmolested. But since it was half-way installed it wouldn’t work. I told them I had done all I could at the time.

The “cable guy” came back on Monday and still couldn’t finish the job because of the “firewall” thingy. I went back out. They wanted to know what was a firewall? And why did they need one when the “cable guy” said their Internet service included anti-virus protection?

What is a firewall, anyway?

A firewall can be either a hardware or software defense device. It acts as a “protective barrier” between the sensitive information on your computer and the professional data thieves out on the Internet.

A firewall that is a hardware device is the most secure. The most common hardware firewalls are inside routers for high speed Internet connections (DSL phone lines or Broadband cable lines).

Think of routers as “baby” computers that can redirect or manipulate harmful Internet traffic away from your machine. Routers can also “hide” your computer or home network away from the prying eyes of robotic programs which is constantly roaming the Net looking for open or weak systems to break into.

A software firewall application is slightly less secure than a router because with any software program it can be compromised. But for most home or small office users, it is strong enough to keep the bad guys out of your PC. My favorite is Zonealarm.

Why do you need a firewall?

Like I mentioned, the world now has international “teams” or “crews” of organized professional data thieves and hackers. They make their living writing programs that hack (break and enter) unsuspecting people’s computers to steal passwords, financial information, pictures and other personal stuff to either use themselves for spam or identify theft or to sell on the black market.

A firewall also can prevent the download of malware (malicious software) like “porn pop-ups”, Trojan Horses, viruses, and spyware from infected websites.

Who needs a firewall?

Okay, here is the unvarnished truth…If you have a DSL or Broadband connection, then you should using some type of firewall. You are using high speed hook-up, unless your computer is turned off, it is ALWAYS open to attack from someone or something from on the Net.

Especially if you routinely visit the “3 Gs”: Gaming, Gambling, and Girlie sites (porn sites of either sex).These websites are in my experience have infected some of my clients with the worst kinds of viruses and spyware.

What can you do to protect yourself?

- Get a good quality firewall; either hardware or software.
- Turn on your firewall and keep it on and updated (if software)
- Stay away from the “3 Gs”: websites for gamers, gamblers and girlie peek-shows. In order to make a fast buck, more than a goodly number of these websites serve up all manner of malware to their customers.

Oh, yeah what happened to Momma Fran and Poppa Fred? In the end, I removed the firewall from their machine so the “cable guy” could finish their setup. They asked that it be left off because it was too confusing for them.

I told them without a firewall; it would be like them running naked through the bramble bushes, they would eventually get “caught” on something if they weren’t careful!

Got computer problems? Want to reduce your technology headaches? To find more helpful computer tips, visit http://www.fixcomputerproblemsguide.com From Chancer Reese – The Small Office Tech Diva.