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General discussion

Dell Dimension E521 - starts as if new each time now

by mikefloutier Apr 11, 2010 8:45PM PDT

Hi,

I have a 3 year old Dell Dimension E521 which has been fine. My McAfee security software expired a few days ago and I only bought a new package this morning, because.....

When I started the PC this morning it started as if it were brand new with the message - "Your user profile was not loaded correctly"- and there's no Windows Mail and no Outlook with all my business contacts and appointments etc. Also each time I restart it it starts again as if from new.

I've installed the new McAfee Internet Security but when I restarted the PC it was nowhere to be found.

Can anyone help with this?

Thanks

Mike

Discussion is locked

5 Posts
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Actually that message
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Apr 11, 2010 11:17PM PDT

If I put that error message on google I see it's been discussed in depth.

In short the user's profile is corrupt in some way so the log on looks like it's started as if new.

The most common cause is malware. You may want to visit the Cnet Spyware forum to learn more and see what scans to perform next. McAfee alone is not enough for today's pests.

HOWEVER if anyone used a registry cleaner, that's a fine way to damage a profile.
Bob

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Will a factory restore get rid of viruses?
by mikefloutier Apr 12, 2010 4:33PM PDT

Thanks Bob,

Things have got worse in that I have not been able to start the PC even in safe mode.

However I was able to start by booting from my installation disc. However, even though I have been able to backup some of my personal files via the DVD drive (KHappy the computer refuses to recognise K: when trying to install Antivirus software.

What I plan to do is backup all my data/program files and then do a Factory Restore.

Will a Factory Restore get rid of viruses?

Thanks,

Mike

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In most cases yes.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Apr 13, 2010 12:04AM PDT
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Wiped HDDs - help installing OS needed
by mikefloutier Apr 14, 2010 2:53AM PDT

Ok, well I've given up trying to remove the virus by itself - I was even willing to pay McAfee

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That note about partitions.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Apr 14, 2010 4:18AM PDT
Back to Dell forum

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