[CatByte]

there are specific instructions on how to get the updated definitions onto the computer here:

http://forums.malwarebytes.org/index...dpost&p=543515


it's 9:50pm here, so I'll be turning in soon


also, is this machine not able to connect to the internet at all?

if so, then you won't be able to run the ESET scan

[CatByte]

sorry, we'll have to pick this up again tomorrow, time for me to head off to bed

(I receive immediate notification when you post, so continue with the MBAM instructions)

[medium_low_skill]

Good morning, I hope you had a good "catnap" (emphasis on "cat") and are refreshed for more dealings with people who have silly Q's like me. <-- Me, embarrassed for asking so many Q's...

Answering your Q: the troubled computer isn't connected online because it uses a different internet provider so I'd have to install my provider's software to enable it to connect here at my house. I could do that but I was holding off due to the fragile state it appeared to be in (I didn't want to add any stressers to the equation).
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I have a few general/related Q's irt installing/running software (like the ones we're running) that I'd appreciate clarification on related to the following statement that always appears when installing these various programs (ComboFix, Malwarebytes, etc.):
They usually say "It is recommended that you close all other apps and temp disable antivirus/firewall before continuing."

Q1- Does "all other apps" include things like:
A. Web browsing apps (like Chrome, IE, etc.)
B. Internet connection software (whether dial-up, DSL, or other provider type software)
C. Any "Windows" explorer folders (for example: C:/Users/Downloads)

Q2- Does "disabling antivirus/firewall" include the often forgotten Windows Defender?

Q3- Would installing/running these programs in Safe Mode (which I believe doesn't run antivirus/firewall prog's...not sure if Defender still runs though) eliminate all the confliction issues? In other words, would it be better to install and/or run these types of programs in Safe Mode or would that cause the testing/fixing programs to not check some of the items that aren't active in Safe Mode?
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I've downloaded the mbab file, and am ready to run, but figured I'd wait for your answers to my above Q's which always come to mind while installing/running these prog's.

Thanks again for your help, answers, and patience.

P.S. This was one of those mornings where I woke up around 0300 so now, 0540, I'm going to try to get in a true catnap of my own. I should be able to get back here in around 3-4 hrs

[CatByte]

Q1- Does "all other apps" include things like:
A. Web browsing apps (like Chrome, IE, etc.)

yes, nothing else should be running

B. Internet connection software (weather dial-up, DSL, or other provider type software)
C. Any "Windows" explorer folders (for example: C:/Users/Downloads)

yes, close any open windows

Q2- Does "disabling antivirus/firewall" include the often forgotten Windows Defender?

yes, but it rarely interferes, so if you don't disable it, it will probably be ok

Q3- Would installing/running these programs in Safe Mode (which I believe doesn't run antivirus/firewall prog's...not sure if Defender still runs though) eliminate all the confliction issues? In other words, would it be better to install and/or run these types of programs in Safe Mode or would that cause the testing/fixing programs to not check some of the items that aren't active in Safe Mode?

It's better to run the scans in normal mode, but if you can't get them to run in normal mode, then run them in safe mode
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I take it there is no wireless internet available that the computer can use without installing software?

[medium_low_skill]

I take it there is no wireless internet available that the computer can use without installing software?

Well, when I was in the military I always had fast internet via cable but when I left I bought a house in the country.
The benefits are: A. Treed acreage. B. Clean, fresh air. C. No traffic or other noises. D. Daily wildlife sightings.
The disadvantages are: A. No cable or DSL (although the phone co has said it'll be any day now...for the past 5yrs...). B. I just happen to be in an area that doesn't get cell phone reception and also can't get wireless internet service...

I haven't even tried setting up wireless with a dial-up connection because it seems like a fruitless endeavor.
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I have to go on some errands but will update you more on next post.

[CatByte]

sounds good

thanks for the info