fighting spyware and learning by doing

Thanks to Major Geeks and it's capable moderators and volunteers, I've learned to combat spyware and in the process have become more technically proficient myself. Once you understand about system restore, showing hidden files, cleaning your drive, and scanning for viruses and spyware in safe mode, you are well on your way to keeping your pc performing like it should. In the last month I have fixed a number of issues and configured settings to effectively have my pc run on "auto pilot" ...hehheh. Thanks Geeks and Company.

 

What's the advantage to scanning for viruses and spyware in safemode versus just regular windows?

James

 

Best scanning results will be achieved as safe mode disables most drivers and running programs. The scans can potentially detect something it otherwise might not in normal mode. If the Geeks preach it, it's 'Geekspel'!

 

How do I boot into safe mode?

James

 

Much of this is covered in the Cleanup Tutorial

READ ME FIRST BEFORE ASKING FOR SUPPORT: Basic Spyware, Trojan and Virus Removal

PP

 

to boot in safe mode, click your pc restart button, then repeatedly tap the F8 key when the black/white screen is displayed but before your OS window begins to appear. However if you have Windows 95, 98, or 98SE you may do your scans in normal mode. Use your arrow keys to select or highlight "safe mode with networking support"...then click enter to proceed to the safe mode style desktop which may look different than your normal mode view. You should be able to command your scans from the desktop or tray icons, or from inside the start menu and/or all programs. After you have run the scans, you simply return to normal mode by restarting the pc. Again, scanning in safe mode gives the best possible result in detection.

 

I printed and keep the Cleanup Tutorial that PhilliePhan mentions closeby. It's the bible.