Virus/Malware that prevents installation of devices?

Is there such a virus/MW? I have Win XP with all upgrades/service packs, but about two months ago, my computer wouldn't let me add any new devices (Maxxtor external drive, printer, etc.) and keeps saying "A device installation is under way. Only one device may be installed at a time." Problem is that I haven't installed anything yet.

Also, even when I disconnect everything from the USB ports, it still gives me that message.

One guy told me that I likely had a virus, but nothing is coming up on my virus scans including on line Bit Defender, Symantec, etc.

Any ideas?

 

I doubt if this is malware. Try the steps below first and see if that solves the problem.

Step 1. Backup registry

1. Click Start > Run, type regedit.exe in the Open box, and click OK.

2. In Registry Editor, click File > Export.

3. Specify a name in the File Name box, making sure that "All" is selected in the Export range box, and then click Save.

(Probably not a bad idea to create a RESTORE point also, just to be safe)


Step 2. Delete registry key(s)

1. Click Start > Run, type regedit.exe in the Open box, and click OK.

2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\Setup

3. If there is any key or values named "FactoryPreInstallInProgress", right click and delete it.

4. Repeat the above steps to delete HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Factory

5. Restart the computer.

Upon restart, the Hardware Wizard should prompt you for a restart so it can rebuild the deleted registry keys. After another restart you should be able to use the "Add Hardware Wizard".

Steve