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Reinstall after a virus

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One of my co-workers has a computer that was attacked by a virus and now starts up, then goes blank. Will reinstalling the OS help? If so how do I do i promt the computer to start off the cd and install XP again?
I am a graphic designer and not a programmer, so I might need the explination "dumbed" up a bit. Thanks

4 replies

by sirnite2001

you will have to go into the bois first an set first boot to cdrom. to get to the bois they would have to hit "del" key or an "F" key it will tell you when you first turn the computer on. after that then put the winxp cd in an reboot system. follow screen prompts.

by blackcurrant

Hi

I would go an Anti-Virus vendor's website (www.sophos.com, www.symantec.com) and search for and download a tool that will remove the virus in question. If you know the name of the virus, search for that virus. You should then be able to access links to a removal tool, or step-by-step instructions on how to completely remove all traces of the virus.

You say the computer "was" attacked, but the blank screen suggests it is still there.

Good luck

by willcomp

After removing virii and/or other malware (e.g. spyware and adware) a repair installation of XP may be required. Virus cleaning can result in deletion of infected files, rendering software and Windows itself inoperable.

For a repair installation, you will need a Windows XP CD. Instructions are at the link below.

http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Dalton

by wlbowers

If you do have a virus or malware the best thing to do is a clean install of the os.

1. Start your computer from the Windows XP CD-ROM. To do this, insert the Windows XP CD-ROM into your CD drive or DVD drive, and then restart your computer.
2. When you see the "Press any key to boot from CD" message, press any key to start the computer from the Windows XP CD-ROM.
3. At the Welcome to Setup screen, press ENTER to start Windows XP Setup.
4. Read the End-User License Agreement, and then press F8.
5. Follow the instructions on the screen to select and format a partition where you want to install Windows XP.
6. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete Windows XP Setup.

Install your antivirus next. If you don't have one you can get a copy of EArmorLE from Computer Associates with the first year free.

http://www.my-etrust.com/microsoft

After completing the install immediately do all of the online upgrades, including service pack 2.

Then install your programs.

Good Luck Lee

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