not a valid Win32 application error

Hi,

I have read through the other threads that seem to treat similar problems but none of the solutions proposed fits my case.

The problem machine is running Windows XP Media Center Edition Version 2002 with SP 3 (french).

Symptoms :

- Running many applications that previously worked gives me the "file.exe" is not a valid Win32 application error.
- I cannot boot into Safe Mode (the machine just cycles through and reboots), I can only boot into normal mode
- Machine is running slowly although I can't see any "greedy" processes in the Task Manager

I have tried the system restore several times to different points preceding the problem arriving, each time the system said it could not do the restore.

I have been through the Malware removal Guide read-me first and the Cleaning procedure but I still have the same problems. I have run several BAGLE removal tools as Asquared and Malewarebytes' AntiMalware detected this and apparently removed it.

I have uninstalled the Antivirus (Avast) and the malware removers that I had, been through the add and remove programs to remove anything I don't need / can reinstall later.

I have tried installing :

CCleaner / Search and Destroy / Kapersky / SuperAntiSpyware / Combofix.exe

none of them will run : always the "not a valid Win32 application error"

Can anyone help me ? I'm at a dead end.

Thanks in advance,

Steve

 

Hi,

I've given up trying to resolve this problem and am reformatting.
This post can be closed.

Bye

 

Hi, I apologize for the delay, we have been extremely busy and we're short handed.

We hate to hear you had to format as we could have removed your issues. To prevent future infections I would recommend your checking out the below site.

How to Protect yourself from malware!