XP Shuts Down after Startup

[woolade]

After turning my PC on it comes up with an error "Install Hardware" and then proceeds to shutdown with a 90 second timer. Could this be a memory problem?

 

[bcastner]

More likely a worm/virus.

http://www.microsoft.com/security/incident/blast.mspx

http://www.microsoft.com/security/incident/sasser.mspx

http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/Scanners.htm

(Panda and Trend Micro are my suggestions)
See as well: faq608-4650

 

[tmehanna]

Actually AVG is quite good and FREE for non commecial use.

 

[bcastner]

tmehanna,

I suspect you read between the lines. I have no issue with AVG. I do not like NIS and I do not like McAfee. (admitting my biases upfront). I use Symantec Corporate AV.

I am in no position to review AV products, but it I did things again I would likely use Sophos. The AV "which is best" debate has no interest for me. I am happy with Symantec Corporate, but whatever you do, have an active AV installed along with an active firewall.

Best Holiday wishes,
Bill Castner

 

[tmehanna]

Bill, didn't read anything between the lines and didn't mean to start a debate which is better. It's just that I felt most people don't realize there is some good AV software out there that can do the job for free. AVG isn't the only one for that matter, it's just the one I am familiar with.

 

[bcastner]

A great response, and appreciated.
Best Holiday Wishes,
Bill Castner

 

[skipholiday]

The free version of AVG doesn't get rid of virus's.
If a virus is detected it will show the user option's on how to purchase.

 

[tmehanna]

@skipholiday

I am afraid that is entirely untrue. Where did you get this info?

 

[skipholiday]

tmehanna:AVG was installed on an infected system.The AV directed me to there site with pricing info.This is the new 6.0 version.

 

[tmehanna]

@skip

You must have clicked the wrong button or something, and besides 6.0 is the old version, 7 is the new, both versions do a good job and would never direct you to their site unless you ask them to. Are you sure you installed the free version and not a trial of their pro, as both are available for download.