[FOX45]

So, i got another virus, but just like the last virus i had, i didnt really need help, so i dont care to type up another virus problem.
Anyway, im in safemode (no networking) on my Windows XP Media Center Edition (SP3) computer.
Before it brought me to my desktop it asked if i wanted to operate in windows safe mode, or if i would like to restore to a previous point.
I click previous point, i selected i would like to restore my computer to a previous time, then clicked next,
Then selected my date, Thursday (all i had was wednesday, thursday, friday, and this morning (saturday)
I just wanted to get a working version of windows running so i could scan and whatnot.
So i selected thursday and clicked next.
Read through the page titled Comfirm Restore Point Selection, and clicked next, but nothing happened, i clicked next again, but it still stay at the Confirm Restore Point Selection, i know i was pressing it since the button was kind of 'being pushed in' when you click it.
Then i tried wednesday.
Then tuesday, on the 5 restore points i had on that day, then friday, but none of them would let 'next' take me to the next part..


What am i doing wrong?
Thanks

Also, related to this topic : Im getting a new computer within the new 3 months, i dont want it to turn out to be like my current one (had 5 viruses, currently has virus, reformatted 2 times.)
What programs would you recommend to keep it safe?
Like Anti Virus, Firewall, etc.

[zabusant]

I'm not going to comment on the virus issue, you should really consult the malware section for that.

But for system restore - try running it in safe mode. For protection - I use Avast (antivirus), Spybot s&d and SpywareBlaster (mostly for the immunization function), spyware guard and COMODO firewall. I also use (almost exclusively) firefox with NoScript and Mcafee SiteAdvisor for browsing. I can't remember when I last had a virus infection, even a tracking cookie would be considered a rarity on my PCs. All of the security programs I use are free for personal use.

But you can have the best software in the world and it still won't help if you have "bad" habits. You have to learn which links to click and which files to download. And always keep your software updated (antimalware and OS). That's my advice. There's also a nice sticky on this subject in the malware removal section of the forum, maybe you should read it.

[vicks]

Zabusant,
You are right on the money!!!!!
Most problems are caused by people not being careful in their browsing habits!!!>
I have never had an infection in the 8 years I been using computers, (knock on wood)but have helped remove some from family/friends computers......
Vicks

[flavallee]

FOX45:

Infections on a regular basis are usually the result of irresponsible browsing habits and questionable file downloads, along with not having and using a good antivirus program and good antispyware programs. Using system restore isn't going to solve the problem either.

What antivirus program and antispyware programs are you currently using?

----------------------------------------------------------------

[FOX45]

Currently, I just got Avira, and SuperAntiSpyware. But seeing as my computer was infected badly right before i got them, so it might have been a lost cause..But i think the fact of no Firewall and leaving my computer on 24/7 might have been the cause of the 2 viruses i've gotten this year.
Im thinking of reformatting, but could the virus possibly have infected my hardware? Like my graphics card or RAM?

[zabusant]

Originally Posted by FOX45

Currently, I just got Avira, and SuperAntiSpyware. But seeing as my computer was infected badly right before i got them, so it might have been a lost cause..But i think the fact of no Firewall and leaving my computer on 24/7 might have been the cause of the 2 viruses i've gotten this year.
Im thinking of reformatting, but could the virus possibly have infected my hardware? Like my graphics card or RAM?

Leaving your computer on 24/7 does not increase your chance of getting a virus, they don't just fall from the sky. It's what you do when you use your computer that gets you infected

However, having an unprotected internet connection always on does allow a rapid spread of malware once you first get infected - and its unhindered mayhem upon your system - and other peoples systems.

Your hardware should be fine, but I always suggest a format after a virus infection. RAM is wiped if you turn of the power, so any virus in RAM is easily taken care of.

[FOX45]

Question, ive reformatted my computer, im installing Windows XP tomorrow, but when i get err..COMODO firewall, should i leave the windows firewall on?

[Megabite]

What do you mean Comodo is a firewall you have put on yourself........you can use Windows firewall...but if you install Comodo theN disable windows one.

Some goood Anti-Virus programs are AvastHome Free Edition and AVG8

[Dan.]

It helps to have the firewall turned on in your router settings.

I would say get NOD32 installed and stick to Windows firewall. That way your computer will not be bogged down. Think about using Firefox for browsing as well.

[zabusant]

Originally Posted by FOX45

Question, ive reformatted my computer, im installing Windows XP tomorrow, but when i get err..COMODO firewall, should i leave the windows firewall on?

Well, windows firewall is not really a proper firewall, but still...after you install a firewall you should disable the windows firewall. Comodo is pretty good, but I don't recommend putting it on an older system (anything below pentium4, 1.7ghz for instance) since has become quite a resource hog. But there's always a trade off between security and performance, you can't get past that.

[vicks]

I believe you should have only 1 each of firewall and antivirus. Multilple of either can cause you problems because of their confilct.
Multiple anti spyware programs are okay.
The Windows firewall is good for incoming traffic, but a 3rd party one will also protect outgoing.
If you go to the general security forum, there is a stickey there that lists many security programs, both purchased and free ones.
Happy Computing.
Vicks