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Question

Slow computer and internet

Jan 20, 2013 10:17AM PST

I have been working on getting my computer cleaned from viruses. I have an hp pavillion with windows 7. I have already been using the super antispyware professional trial. I have been able to remove at least 7 or 8 trojan viruses along with about 760 other things that were clogging the computer. I have run and installed updates. I have uninstalled microsoft security essentials and reinstalled it. I have run Malwarebytes scans. When it found things, I followed the steps to remove items. However, even after doing all this, in regular mode the computer programs I try to run all run very slowly. For instance, to do a full scan in super antispyware, it took over 7 hours to do a full scan. Where if I run a scan in safe mode with networking it only takes a little over an hour. In regular mode, if I try to get on the internet, it takes several minutes for internet to display a page, where as in safe mode, I can get right on the internet without any delay. What can I do to get the speed back in regular mode to the computer and internet?

Cari

Discussion is locked

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Answer
I would back up all my data first
Jan 20, 2013 10:32AM PST

After backing up all my data, I'd restore my computer to factory settings, then reinstall any applications that didn't come preinstalled.

Good luck.

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Answer
That slow scan can be a clue.
Jan 20, 2013 10:33AM PST

First, take Grif's advice and let's see what RKIL finds. Just that and in about a minute we'll see if something else is up.

http://forums.cnet.com/7726-6132_102-5098912.html?tag=posts;msg5099421

Remember that even if we eradicate all pests, that's not going to repair a dinged up OS. And OS repair is more than files so be sure you are preparing for the final solution.

But the slow scan has been a sign of heat or failing HDD. I don't see much PC detail so I'll wait for the RKILL result.
Bob

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Results of rkill
Jan 23, 2013 4:43AM PST

Bill,
Here are the results of running rkill:

Rkill 2.4.6 by Lawrence Abrams (Grinler)
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/
Copyright 2008-2013 BleepingComputer.com
More Information about Rkill can be found at this link:
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/topic308364.html

Program started at: 01/23/2013 03:39:56 PM in x64 mode.
Windows Version: Windows 7 Home Premium Service Pack 1

Checking for Windows services to stop:

* No malware services found to stop.

Checking for processes to terminate:

* No malware processes found to kill.

Checking Registry for malware related settings:

* No issues found in the Registry.

Resetting .EXE, .COM, & .BAT associations in the Windows Registry.

Performing miscellaneous checks:

* No issues found.

Checking Windows Service Integrity:

* COM+ Event System (EventSystem) is not Running.
Startup Type set to: Automatic

* Security Center (wscsvc) is not Running.
Startup Type set to: Automatic (Delayed Start)

* Windows Update (wuauserv) is not Running.
Startup Type set to: Automatic (Delayed Start)

Searching for Missing Digital Signatures:

* No issues found.

Checking HOSTS File:

* No issues found.

Program finished at: 01/23/2013 03:40:09 PM
Execution time: 0 hours(s), 0 minute(s), and 12 seconds(s)


Where do I go from here?
Cari

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That's a relief to read.
Jan 23, 2013 5:33AM PST

At least that came up clean. Email me your HIJACKTHIS LOG (a link how to later.) But you didn't tell me why you would not suspect a failing HDD or an overheating computer.

Here's how to make a log -> http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/tutorials/how-to-post-a-hijackthis-log/

Remember I'm only going to check for things I know about. Overlapping security, toxic combinations that I know about. Again, the fact it had a virus means the OS can be damaged and the good news is you can get your files out and reload the machine. Some folk think that all OS damage can be fixed. True, but at what cost?
Bob

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Answer
Only an observation..
Jan 23, 2013 5:34AM PST
IF you still have the trial version of SUPERAntiSpyware Pro and MSE installed......

If you go to the MSE Community Forum and ask if the two conflict, you will receive a resounding YES! You will also find the same written within "Microsoft Security Essentials - Installation Checklist and Frequently Asked Questions ".

However, if you go to the SUPERAntiSpyware forum, many say the two co-exist without a problem.

Again "if" SAS is installed and running in real-time, have you tried disabling it to see if it makes a difference?

Carol
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Will Give Both a Try
Jan 23, 2013 10:52AM PST

Carol and Bob (sorry about the Bill, I forgot when I was writing),
I will give both of your suggestions a try and get back to you on my results.
Cari