Vista Tips - Disabling Aero Glass for Faster Performance

Now you want to make Windows Explorer even faster. Disabling the Aero Glass composition engine will allow you to have a much faster user interface experience on slower hardware. However, you will lose most of the cool visual effects, such as the windows transitions and the cool new Flip 3D window switcher

Disabling Aero Glass will turn off the Desktop Window Manager and Windows will use a visual style engine similar to what was in Windows XP. The older visual style engine works great on slower hardware that ran XP well. However, the look of the user interface is a little different.

If you are willing to compromise the Glass look for a big increase in performance, follow these steps to disable Aero Glass:

1. Right-click the Desktop and select Personalize from the menu.
2. Select Windows Color and Appearance from the top of the list in the Personalization window.
3. On the bottom of the window, click Open classic appearance properties for more color options.
4. When Appearance Settings loads, select Windows Aero Basic from the color scheme list.
5. Press Apply, OK and you are finished.

Vista Tips - Enabling Aero Glass on Slower Hardware

Aero Glass can be resource intensive depending on your CPU, amount of RAM, and screen resolution. On top of the speed of your hardware, the DWM (Desktop Window Manager) has strict hardware requirements, such as a video card that supports DirectX 9 hardware acceleration and Pixel Shader 2.0 support. It also requires new Windows Vista WDDM (Windows display driver model) video drivers to function.

Failure to meet the hardware and driver requirements will result in no Glass for you. Back in the beta days, you could trick the DWM into running Glass in a software Direct3D emulation mode and bypassing the hardware checks. This made it possible to run Glass, but so poorly that the operating system was pretty much useless because the frame rate was less than one frame per second. In the final version of Windows Vista, that support was yanked, so you are left with the task of meeting the hardware and driver requirements to run Glass.

Say you have a computer that has a DirectX 9 accelerated graphics card with Pixel Shader 2.0 support and are running WDDM drivers for your card. Aero Glass is going to run, right? Not exactly. The first time that you boot your computer after Windows Vista is installed, Windows will benchmark your computer and all its hardware components during its initial hardware assessment.

Based on the results of this benchmark, it automatically fine-tunes Vista settings so that it performs the best on your hardware; atleast that's its goal. If hardware assessment finds any thresholds not met, such as not enough RAM, it disables Aero Glass from running on your computer even if your hardware can technically support it.

What are you to do?
With the help of a useful tweak I show you in this section, you can override the decision and re-enable Aero Glass. If you fall into this situation, I have good news for you. Many users have found that after they override the setting and re-enable Aero Glass, their system performance is just fine. It seems that the Windows hardware assessment might be a little too strict when it comes to deciding whether Aero Glass should be disabled.

Overriding the Windows decision to disable Aero Glass is easy via Registry Editor. Follow these steps to re-enable Aero Glass on your computer:

1. Click the Start button, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. When Registry Editor has opened, navigate to
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\ Microsoft\Windows\DWM
   
   Working with the Registry to enable Aero Glass
   
   
3. Right-click on Composition and select Modify.
4. Set the value to 1 and press OK.
5. Right-click CompositionPolicy and select Modify.
6. Set the value to 2 and press OK.
7. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer.
   You can restart the service by typing net stop uxsms followed by net start uxsms at an administrative-level command prompt.

After you set the two Registry values and restart the service or your computer, you will immediately see Aero Glass running if your hardware truly supports it and you have WDDM drivers for your video card.

Speeding Up System Boot - What Hardware Devices should I Disable ?

Each user uses (or doesn't use) devices differently,depending on the system setup. Nonetheless, some classes of devices are more commonly disabled than others.Knowing which ones will help you make a decision as to what devices you should disable.The following classes of devices are frequently disabled:

To quickly determine the status of a device, check out the icon next to its name. All devices that are disabled have a red X over the icon. All devices that have a question mark or an explanation point on them are not set up correctly or are having problems. All devices with none of the above additions to the icon are runningññand doing so without any problems.

Network Adapters
Especially on Notebook computers,there are often more than one network device. Disabling the network devices that you do not use will definitely save you some booting time.

Fire wire
If you have 1394 connections,otherwise known as fire wire,you might consider disabling them. Unless you are using your fire wire port to connect your digital
video recorder to your computer,or have other external fire wire devices,you have no need to have this device enabled.

Modems
Do you have a broadband connection? If so,then consider disabling your modem. If you rarely use it,disable it. If you ever need to use it again,just re-enable it.

Multimedia devices
Your computer has lots of multimedia devices. Take a look at the
ìSound,video,and game controllersîsection in Device Manager. You will find a lot of device drivers that are loaded during your boot.Some are used by all users,but others will find a few that they do not use.For example,I do not use my game port or my MIDI device,so I disabled both of those.

PCMCIA
If you are a laptop user,consider disabling your PCMCIA card controller, located under ìPCMCIA adapters."The PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association ) slot is a special expansion slot that is rarely used today on laptops except for wireless and wired network cards and card reader attachments for compact flash and other solid state memory cards.Most laptops now have built-in network adapters and some even have built-in wireless adapters.If you do not use your PCMCIA adapter, it is yet another device that can be safely disabled.

Caution
Do not disable any hardware devices that are located under the Disk Drives, Computer, Display Adapters, IDE Disk Controllers, and the System sections (except for the system speaker) because these hardware devices are critical to the operation of your computer.

Manual Removal of tkbellexe.exe

Tkbellexe.exe (W32.Lovgate/Worm)
W32.Lovgate is a Trojan that spreads through email and exploits buffer overrun vulnerability in the system. Once executed, Lovgate can allow unauthorized remote access to infected systems.
TkBellExe.exe is a mass-mailing worm Worm.Win32.LovGate.
TkBellExe.exe opens a back door on TCP port 6000.
TkBellExe.exe spreads via open network shares.
TkBellExe.exe tries to terminate antiviral programs installed on a user computer.

Damage Level : Medium

Distribution Level: High

[ Aliases ]
Email-Worm.Win32.LovGate.w (Kaspersky Lab) is also known as: I-Worm.LovGate.w (Kaspersky Lab), BackDoor-AQJ (McAfee),   W32.Lovgate.R@mm (Symantec),   Win32.HLLM.Lovgate.9 (Doctor Web),   W32/Lovgate-V (Sophos),   Win32/Lovgate.V@mm (RAV),   WORM_LOVGATE.V (Trend Micro),   Win32:Lovgate-AD (ALWIL),   I-Worm/Lovgate.X (Grisoft),   Win32.Lovgate.V@mm (SOFTWIN),   W32/Lovgate.AC.worm (Panda),   Win32/Lovgate.Z (Eset)


Manual Removal Instructions
Recommend Removal from Safe Mode:
How to Start in Safe mode:
Restart your Computer, Press F8 Repeatedly, when your Screen turns on, Select Safe mode, press enter.

Kaspersky Tool:
Email-Worm.Win32.LovGate.w Removal Download
BitDefender/Softwin Tool:
Win32.Lovgate.V@mm Removal Download
Symatec Tool:
Download

The Infected Files Can be Seen in these folders and names also Running in Tasks
End the Following Active Process Before Removal

• %windir%\CDPlay.exe
• %windir%\Exploier.exe
• %system%\IEXPLORE.exe
• %system%\iexplorer.exe
• %system%\RAVMOND.exe
• %system%\WinHelp.exe
• %system%\spoolsv.exe
• %system%\Update_OB.exe
• %system%\TkBellExe.exe
• %system%\hxdef.exe
• %system%\Kernel66.dll
  

If you have any of these files in running process from task manger, end the process before removal.
Note: if task manager is disabled, Download the following file,Click to Download - Enable Registry.reg


Manually Remove From Registry
Click Start, Run,Type regedit,Click OK.
Note: If the registry editor fails to open the threat may have modified the registry to prevent access to the registry editor. Download and run this UnHookExec.inf, and then continue with the removal.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run

In the right pane, delete the values:
"Winhelp" = "%system%\TkBellExe.exe..."
"Hardware Profile" = "%system%\hxdef.exe..."  
"Program in Windows"="%system%\IEXPLORE.exe"  
"Microsoft NetMeeting Associates, Inc." = "NetMeeting.exe"  
"Protected Storage"="RUNDLL32.exe MSSIGN30.DLL ondll_reg..."  
"VFW Encoder/Decoder Settings"="RUNDLL32.exe MSSIGN30.DLL ondll_reg"  
"WinHelp"="%system%\WinHelp.exe"  
"Shell Extension" = "%system%\spollsv.exe"

[95/98/Me]
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunServices
In the right pane, delete the values:

"SystemTra"="%Windir%\SysTra.exe"
"COM++ System" = "svchost.exe..."

[NT/2000/XP]

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows
In the right pane, delete the value:
"run"="RAVMOND.exe"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services
In the left hand pane, delete the subkeys:
_reg
Windows Management Protocol v.0(experimental

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Classes\txtfile\shell\open\command
In the right pane, modify the default value to:
notepad.exe %1

Exit the Registry Editor
Restart your Computer

Search Registry For Virus File Names listed above to remove completely,
Edit Menu - Find, enter Keyword and remove all value that find in search.
Recommended Removal Tools:
Kaspersky Antivirus or Internet Security (Shareware)
Spyware Doctor (Shareware)
AVG Antivirus (Freeware)
Killbox (Freeware)

Remove UnSigned Driver Installation Warnings

To prevent this warning or to allow new un-signed drivers to be installed do the following:

1. Go to start/run/ then type secpol.msc
2. Browse to local policies/security options
3. Change "Devices: Unsigned driver installation behavior" setting to Silently succeed.
4. Reboot Computer.

Or, especially if you are using Windows XP Home where there is no secpol.msc, right click on your My Computer icon, click properties, change to the Hardware tab, click the "Driver signing" button and click ignore.

USB DSL Cable Modems Error Fix

Some usb dsl/cable modems may get disconnected after a little while. A possible reason that could cause this problem is that in windows xp there is an option that allows the computer to turn off a usb device to save power.

To disable this option:

1. Click start, highlight my computer, right click and select properties and a window will pop up with the system properties
2. Click on the hardware tab and press the device manager button
3. Expand the universal serial bus controllers
4. Double click on the USB Root Hub.
5. Select the Power Management tab and UNTICK the "allow the computer to turn off the device to save power"

If you have more than one USB Root Hub, then you should apply the steps to each one of them.

That's it, you won't need to restart the computer!

Invaild Data Fix for WinXP

This error appears to be due to a protection problem in the Windows registry and can occur with a variety of drivers (sound cards and SCSI drivers have been reported). To fix this problem, go to Start, Run... and type "regedit" without the quotes to run the Registry Editor. Navigate to

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\ENUM\PCI

and you will see a number of keys of the form "VEN_xxxx", where xxxx are strings like "1102&DEV_0004&SUBSYS_00011103&REV_04".

Under each of these folders will be another folder with a long numerical name.

Open each folder and look for the "DeviceDesc" which matches the hardware you are trying to install.

Right Click on the "VEN_xxxx" for that device and select 'Permissions' and then tick "Allow" for "Full Control". Close Regedit and then continue with the installation of your device.

I cannot guarantee it works for everyone, but although I swear by it after swearing at it(XP), it should help you if you ever had casual problem.

Essential look for an Assembled PC

Do note while all potential buyers will benefit from this piece, it is mainly targeted at individuals opting for an assembled PC.

An indicative price list at the end will help you budget accordingly.

Motherboard

The large circuit board into which the Central Processing Unit, memory boards and peripheral cards are plugged is referred to as the motherboard.

It is the most vital part of any computer as it holds and connects all your peripherals and add-ons to give you upgrade options and support for future technologies.

What you must know:

Check whether it comes with all the necessary options, support for upgradeability and extra slots for memory and other add-on cards.

Processor

Processor chips are primarily available in two brands -- INTEL and AMD.

The Intel chips range from the very basic Celeron chip to the Pentium series to the advanced Centrino processor.

AMD has a chip called Athlon, which is slightly cheaper than the higher end Intel chips.

Most users prefer Intel Pentium chips to Athlon as the latter heats up soon and isn't as efficient as a Pentium 4 chip. Also, the Athlon chip based systems need extra fans to cool the system.

The most preferred chip is the Pentium 4 2.4 GHz.

You might want to consider the Athlon chip with the motherboard would cost you about $70 less than its INTEL counterpart.

What you must know:

Though the processor speed plays a crucial role, you need not have the latest and fastest one available. If a processor with a slightly lesser core speed can do just as well for your demands, go for it.
Make sure the chips are box packed with a serial number to ensure they are original.

Random Access Memory

RAM is the amount of memory available for use by programmes on a computer.

The RAM chip comes in capacities of 128, 256, 512 MB, even 1 GB. Most computers function efficiently with 256 MB RAM, though a 512 MB RAM does offer you an edge.

As a thumb rule, always go in for a minimum of 256 MB RAM.

The cost difference between 256 MB and 512 MB is around $30.

The latest memory technologies in use are DDR RAM, RD RAM and the latest release of the DDR2 RAM.

What you must know:

Since it ensures the smooth running of your system, the more the better.
Make sure the memory capacity is upgradeable.
Make sure the RAM is original and opt for the DDR range of RAMs. Duplicate RAMs will not function on Windows XP operating systems.
The RAM comes with a year's warranty.

Hard Disk Drive

HDD capacity counts for a great deal.

A 40 GB hard disk is sufficient disk space but you may choose an 80 GB variant.

The brand SEAGATE is a very reliable brand for hard disks and is preferred by most computer manufacturers and assemblers.

What you must know:

The hard disk comes with a three-year warranty.

Monitor

Monitors are computer screens available in varied sizes, the most popular being the 15" and 17".

You can choose between a flat panel plasma screen and a regular desktop monitor.

A 15" monitor costs around $100 and the 17", between $150 and $200, depending on the type.

The Dynaflat type monitor is preferred to the conventional CRT type, which is technically referred to as the Cathode Ray Tube.

The plasma screen monitor is highly priced at about $400 plus.

The various brands for monitors are Samsung, Mercury and LG, to name a few. Samsung is the preferred alternative for monitors and is also the leading peripheral components dealer.

What you must know:

Monitors usually come with a three-year warranty.

Peripherals

These include the keyboard, mouse, web cam, printer, scanner, joystick, etc.

Samsung and Microsoft are the preferred brands.

Choose an optical mouse over the usual one. The price difference is marginal. The same applies for the Internet keyboard.

Don't opt for a wireless mouse or a keyboard as the sensors get spoilt with time. Besides, you have to charge the batteries every week.

Web cams can cost from anywhere between $20 and $100.

For printers and scanners, Hewlett Packard is the market leader. A domestic colour printer might cost around $100, though the cartridges are a tad expensive at $40 each.

What you must know:

Don't choose the cheapest printer in sight. You will spend the money you save in less than a year on cartridges.
Don't go for the ones cheaper than $30 as they have poor resolution.

Voltage stabilizers and Spike guards

If your locality has frequent power failures or severe voltage fluctuations, opt for a voltage stabiliser. This will prevent any damage that could reduce the life of your machine.

A voltage stabiliser can cost from $20 to $40.

Regardless of the locality and the power supply, opt for a spike guard. It will provide four power plug points for your computer and peripherals.

A spike guard is also called a transient suppressor. It will cost $20.

Windows Malicious Files Start Up List

Close Program/Task Manager
This is NOT a list of tasks/processes taken from Task Manager or the Close Program window (CTRL+ALT+DEL) but a list of startup applications, although you will find some of them listed via this method. Pressing CTRL+ALT+DEL identifies programs that are currently running - not necessarily at startup.

For a list of tasks/processes you should try WinTasks 5 Standard/Professional from LIUtilities or the list at AnswersThatWork. Therefore, before ending a task/process via CTRL+ALT+DEL just because it has an "X" recommendation, please check whether it's in MSCONFIG or the registry first.

An example would be "svchost.exe" - which doesn't appear in either under normal conditions but does via CTRL+ALT+DEL. If in doubt, don't do anything.
Operating System Differences

A number of entries are repeated due to the way that different operating systems display startup items. For example, WinMe lists "POPROXY.EXE" as "Norton eMail Protect" in both MSCONFIG and the registry whereas WinXP lists it as "Poproxy" in MSCONFIG and "Noeton eMail Protect" in the registry.

To avoid the list becoming too large, all VIRUSES are shown using the registry version which is common to all Windows versions.
Alternatively use your browsers search facility - Ctrl+F for IE users.
Key:
"Y" - Normally leave to run at start-up
"N" - Not required - typically infrequently used tasks that can be started manually if necessary
"U" - User's choice - depends whether a user deems it necessary
"X" - Definitely not required - typically viruses, spyware, adware and "resource hogs"
"?" - Unknown
Use your browsers search facility - Ctrl+F for IE users.

X	w32		w32.exe	Added by the SOKEVEN TROJAN!
X	W32.Scran		Scran.exe	Added by the NARCS WORM!
X	w32alanis		mope.scr	Added by the SINALA WORM!
X	W32Load		[random filename].scr	Added by the CASPID WORM!
X	w32sup		w32sup.exe	Adult content dialler
X	W32Tc		WTC32.scr	Added by the VOTE.D or VOTE.K WORMS!
X	W3KNetwork		rundll32.exe w3knet.dll, dllinitrun	Advertising spyware. Check here for more info on this particular one
Y	W75P2PSERVER		W75P2PS.EXE	Printer utility which is required in order to make the printer work correctly
?	W815DM		W815DM.exe	??
N	Wanadoo Messenger.exe		Wanadoo Messenger.exe	Wanadoo ISP instant messenger client
Y	WanMPSvc		WanMPSvc.exe	An AOL component, the Wan miniport (ATW) service. If you delete this and logon, AOL reports a problem with your internet connection, and reinstalling AOL doesn’t help
X	WAPI		wts**.exe [* = random char]	PurityScan/Clickspring adware
N	war-ftpd.exe		WAR-FTPD.EXE	War FTP Daemon from JGAA's Internet - FTP client
X	Wardo		syslaunch.exe	Added by the ADLCICKER.G TROJAN!
X	WareOut		WareOut.exe	Malware masquerading as a spyware and dialer remover, see here
N	warez		warez.exe	Warez P2P client
U	Warner		warner.exe	Also known as "CyberWarner". From G-Tek Technologies and pre-installed on some Packard Bell PCs. Protects critical files
U	Warnet		warnet.exe	Warnet - system cleanup software
U	Warning: do not remove it!		fpplock.exe	Part of Folder Password Expert by ZQS Software Team - "a software program to restrict access to the folders that contain your sensitive data"
N	WARSVR		war-ftpd.exe	"War FTP Daemon - the original free FTP server for windows"
U	WashAndGo - Cleanup of old Backupfiles		checker.exe	WashAndGo - temp file cleaner
U	Washer		washer.exe	Windows Washer from Webroot Software. Useful utility that deletes safe to remove files, cookies, browsing history, etc. Available via from Start -> Programs. Disable within the program options - otherwise it is re-enabled in MSCONFIG
N	Washerie.exe		washerie.exe	Cookie Washer for Internet Explorer from Webroot Software. Light version of Windows Washer, specific for cleaning the IE cache and cookies. Available via Start -> Programs
U	washindex		washidx.exe	Windows Washer from Webroot Software. Useful utility that deletes safe to remove files, cookies, browsing history, etc. Available via from Start -> Programs. Disable within the program options - otherwise it is re-enabled in MSCONFIG
X	Wast		wast.exe	Grokster ads updater
N	Watch		watch.exe	Found to be used by a Trust USB scanner for auto starting the scanning software when the lid is lifted
?	Watch		1200UBWATCH.EXE	??
N	Watch Dog Program		watchdog.exe	For Compaq PC's. Associated with Compaq's internet services. Not required if you don't use services provided by them and may not be required even if you do
N	Watchdog		Watchdog.exe	Definitely part of the Mustek scanner drivers and software (for 600 III EP Plus and maybe others), launches from the Startup folder in the Start Menu, but not required as they give instructions on removing it on their webpage
?	WatchDog		watchdog.exe	Part of Motorola "Mobile Phone Tools" v3 - in a "Mobiile Phone Tools" sub-directory of Program Files
N	WaveTop Launcher		WaveTop.exe	WaveTop - "Get push content from TV without an Internet connection" - now possibly a defunct system in the US included as an optional part of WebTV in Win98
N	WaveTop Receiver 1		N/A	WaveTop - "Get push content from TV without an Internet connection" - now possibly a defunct system in the US included as an optional part of WebTV in Win98
N	WaveTop Receiver 2		N/A	WaveTop - "Get push content from TV without an Internet connection" - now possibly a defunct system in the US included as an optional part of WebTV in Win98
N	WaveTop Upload Manager		N/A	WaveTop - "Get push content from TV without an Internet connection" - now possibly a defunct system in the US included as an optional part of WebTV in Win98
N	Wbiff		Wbiff.exe	Wbiff! E-mail checker - automatically checks your e-mail and notifies you if any new e-mail has been received
?	Wbutton		Wbutton.exe	Related to the Wacom Penabled driver on Acer Tablet PCs. Appears to do nothing so is it required?
N	WCESCOMM		WCESCOMM.EXE	Active sync for use with Windows CE based palm PC
U	wcmdmgr		wcmdmgrl.exe	Web Driver delivery system for WildTangent on-line games. Periodically checks for updates - can be disabled within the programs control panel. Note that WildTanget's privacy policy used to state that they also collect and share individuals information but this is no longer the case
N	wcmdmgr.exe		wcmdmgr.exe	Web Driver delivery system for WildTangent on-line games. Periodically checks for updates - can be disabled within the programs control panel. Note that WildTanget's privacy policy used to state that they also collect and share individuals information but this is no longer the case
U	wcmdmgrl		wcmdmgrl.exe	Web Driver delivery system for WildTangent on-line games. Periodically checks for updates - can be disabled within the programs control panel. Note that WildTanget's privacy policy used to state that they also collect and share individuals information but this is no longer the case
U	WCOLOREAL		coloreal.exe	Makes colours sharper and brighter, but will only work with coloreal capable monitors
?	WCPC		wintsvcc.exe	??
X	WCPI		wintsvit.exe	PurityScan/Clickspring adware
X	WCPS		Wint**.exe [* = random char]	PurityScan/Clickspring adware
X	WCPT		wintsvtr.exe	PurityScan/Clickspring adware
U	WD Button Manager		WDBtnMgr.exe	Button manager installed with a western digital external disk drive. Allows you to back up your system with one click
X	WDInfo		wdinfo.exe	Added by the DLUCA.B TROJAN!
X	wdskctl		wdskctl.exe	IEPlugin spyware
X	wdwctrl		wdwctrl.exe	Added by the DLUCA.E TROJAN!
N	WEATHER		WEATHER.EXE	Weatherbug provides current outdoor temperature in the System Tray, also weather alerts. Available via Start -> Programs
N	WeatherCast		Weather.exe	Weather reporting in the System Tray. Available via Start -> Programs. Installed via Radlight
X	WeatherOnTray		WeatherOnTray.exe	Hotbar's Weather Forecast tool for your desktop - adware
N	WeatherWatcher		ww.exe	WeatherWatcher - weather reporting in the System Tray
X	web		******.exe [* = random char]	Added by a variant of the EASTO.A TROJAN!
?	Web Search		??	??
X	Web Service		[random filename].exe	Added by the ADMINCASH TROJAN!
Y	web3trap		web3trap.exe	PC-Cillin 2000 anti-virus software -> ActiveX filter. Guards against malicious ActiveX programs, etc
X	webalize		webalize.exe	Searchcentrix hijacker
N	WebArmyKnife		WAK.exe	Web Army Knife - a suite of web site developer's tools
X	webassist		webassist.exe	Adware popup generator
?	Webcam Go Sti Service Application		wbcgosvc.exe	Control software for the portable Creative Video Blaster Webcam Go digital camera/PC web cam. What does it do and is it required?
N	WebcamRT.exe		WEBCAMRT.exe	For Logitech Web Cams. Not required - camera works fine without it
X	Webcelerator		webcel.exe	Webcelerator from eAcceleration speeds your Web browsing by both remembering where you have been and anticipating where you will go. Only needed if you find it improves web browsing. Spyware and troublesome - see here
X	WebCheck		WebCheck.pif	Added by the CONE.C or CONE.F WORMS!
X	WebCpr0		WebCpr0.exe	Web_CPR/TopMoxie adware
X	Webdav.exe		webdav.exe	IRC DDoS bot which gives the hacker full control over your system
X	WebHancer Agent		whagent.exe	System Tray application that starts up Webhancer software. Software that optimizes your web browser and is also advertising spyware that you can find out about here
X	webHancer Survey Companion		whSurvey.exe	WebHancer foistware - traffic measurement service that uses a client agent that is stealth installed on user machines, gathering detailed data about sites visited, their performance and, most important, what the user actually does while there
X	WebInstall		WebInstall.exe	ClipGenie adware downloader
X	WebInstall2		WebInstall.exe	ClipGenie adware downloader
N	WebKey		WebKey.exe	WebKey from JB Utilities. Utility to keep track of login data required when browsing the internet
N	WebOutfitterTray		sttray.exe	Intel WebOutfitter service System Tray icon
N	Webposition Gold 2		wpsche~1.exe	Scheduler for Web Position Gold - utility to help optimize the position of web-sites in search engines
X	WebRebates0		WebRebates0.exe	WebRebates adware
X	WebRun		[Trojan filename]	Added by the ADWARELOADER TROJAN!
U	websaverlive		websaverlive.exe	WebSaver Live! is a companion program to Websaver that retrieves information from the Internet on a schedule and displays it on your screen when your computer is idle
X	WebSavingsfromEbates		WebSavingsfromEbatesrun.exe	Web Savings From Ebates Software, a shopping tool that opens pop-up windows
X	WebSavingsFromEbates0		WebSavingsFromEbates0.exe	Web Savings From Ebates Software, a shopping tool that opens pop-up windows
X	WebScan		DEFSCANGUI.EXE	eAcceleration Stop-Sign related - not recommended, see note
N	webscan		stopsignav.exe	eAcceleration Stop-Sign related - not recommended, see note
Y	WebScanX		WebScanX.exe	From McAfee VirusScan up to version 4.x. Provides functionality for VShield Download Scan and Internet Filter modules. Enables internet scanning. Guards against malicious ActiveX programs, etc
X	websearch		wjview ...websearch.exe	"Web Savings" From Ebates Software, a shopping tool that opens pop-up windows
X	WebSecureAlert		WebSecureAlert.exe	WebSecureAlert. "Can help protect your browser security and privacy". However, it's by GAIN Publishing, and will display pop up ads on your computer screen based on your online Web surfing behavior
?	WebServer		VBI_SE~1.EXE	Related to a Pinnacle sound card. What does it do and is it needed?
N	Webshots		Webshots Tray.exe	Screensaver program that automatically downloads from the webshots web site
N	Webshots		websho~1.exe	Screensaver program that automatically downloads from the webshots web site
X	WebSpecials		rundll32 [path] webspec.dll	WebSpecials spyware
X	Websx		Int*****.exe	Adult content dialler - where ***** are random
Y	Webtrap		webtrap.exe	Part of PC-Cillin anti-virus software. Checks web-sites for malicious Java and ActiveX elements in a similar way to McAfee WebScanX. A few users find it infuriating
Y	WebTrapNT.exe		WebTrapNT.exe	Part of PC-Cillin Anti-Virus software. Checks visited web-sites for malicious Java and ActiveX elements
U	WebWasher		wwasher.exe	Free Pop-up/ad/javascript filter program from Siemens. If not running then browsers will not be protected but will still work. Available via Start -> Programs
N	Welcome		Welcome.exe	Launches the Welcome to Windows tutorial on boot up
?	WEPstat		Wepstat.exe	Cisco Aironet 340 Series PC Card driver. If it can be started manually it shouldn't be required if you don't use the PC card facility regularily - hence the status could be "U". Can anybody confirm this?
X	wersds		doriot.exe	Added by the JECT.C TROJAN!
N	WetSock		wetsock.exe	RoboMagic Wetsock - weather reporting in the System Tray
N	WFGStartup		WFGStartup.exe	World Weather. "This midlet displays the current weather conditions for major cities around the world. This version is for memory limited mobile phones"
U	wfips		iphider.exe	ICQ (messaging/chat program) anti-bomb software. "WFIPS is anti-bomb software for safeguarding ICQ Bomb before the bombing. 'ICQ Defoolder' is a tool for removing ICQ bomb after being exposed." For more information about ICQ bombs see here
N	WFXCTL32.EXE		WFXCTL32.EXE	From WinFax 10.0 and possibly earlier versions. Appears if you chose to have WinFax appear in the taskbar (System Tray) during installation and displays a yellow fax/telephone icon. Available via Start -> Programs
Y	wfxsnt40		wfxsnt40.exe	WinFax 10.0 and maybe earlier versions. The program that opens the port for WinFax and not normally in the start menu. Needed if you want to run WinFax
?	WFXSwtch		WFXSWTCH.exe	Related to WinFax. What does it do and is it required?
Y	WG511WLU		WG511WLU.exe	Netgear configuration programme for the 54g wireless lan card - required to monitor and manage the lan card
U	WGWLocalManager		WGWLocalManager.exe	Part of Flash-Networks NettGain2000 product. NettGain 2000 is a combined hardware/software networking solution, which is designed to improve performance of satellite networks by increasing data transmission speeds and maximizing the existing bandwidth for complete utilization when sending TCP/IP applications over a satellite. It is needed when connecting to the internet via satellite to provide speed faster than 60k or so. It could be started by creating a shortcut, running it only when connecting to the internet. If internet is used often, it's recommended to leave it in startup so it starts with the system

Speed up Windows Boot

Speed up Boot by Disabling Unused Ports

I have just accidentally found out another way to give you an extra boost in Windows XP's boot performance. This is done by disabling your unused devices in Device Manager.

for example, if you don't have input devices that are connected to one of your USBs or COM ports, disabling them will give you an extra perfromance boost in booting.

Yes i've tried this. I've disabled every devices that currently has no use for my pc and it worked great. My booting time is much faster than before.

Go to Control Panel -> System -> Hardware tab -> Device Manager
or alternate : Start -> Run -> devmgmt.msc Press Enter.

Disable devices that you don't use for your PC and then restart.

Computer Keyboard Problems

Keyboard problems are usually easy to pinpoint, there are 2 types of interface that are used today, the newer type USB and the older type PS2 or Mini Din.

Make sure to checkout more Common Hardware Problems Below

Keyboard is Mal Functioning ?

Firstly check all connections from the keyboard to the computer making sure they are fitted well.

Try the keyboard in another computer, this will show if its the computer or the keyboard.

Keyboard Errors

PS2 keyboards have very small pins in the keyboard cable connecter and these can be squashed or bent out of shape very easily causing keyboard problems care needs to be taken when plugging them in.

Check on the keyboard for signs of fluid spillages or anything stuck under the keys.

Software

Many keyboard problems can be software related. Remove and allow Windows to reinstall the keyboard, from control panels - system - hardware - device manager Right click uninstall and Windows will re-install it.

Wireless Keyboards

Check the batteries
Try re-connecting by using the little button, usually situated on the bottom.
Make sure the keyboards receiver is plugged in
If you have a Bluetooth keyboard remove any security codes and try connecting this way.

If you are using a USB keyboard and it has extra USB ports try with nothing plugged into them.

Many keyboards come with extra software for extra keys and buttons on the keyboard.

If all has failed so far the final fix is the system restore which is part of Windows XP and Vista, checkout our article on this for more.

Vista Boot Options

This Tip is for the First Time Windows Vista Users

Click Start-Run then enter "msconfig" without quotes and press enter.
Alternate way to take Windows Run
Press Win key+R

The Boot tab lets you configure boot options, including timeout settings and advanced
settings, such as these:

■ Safe Boot: Minimal—Boots to the Windows GUI but only running critical services.
Networking functions are also disabled. If you find your system is working at this level
then you might want to try turning on services to see if they cause any further issues.

■ Safe Boot: Alternate Shell—Boots to a command prompt. Critical services are running,
but networking and the GUI are disabled. From here you can perform command-line
diagnostics.

■ Safe Boot: Active Directory Repair—Boots to the Windows GUI running critical services
and Active Directory.

■ Safe Boot: Network—Boots to the Windows GUI, running critical services and network-
ing. If you don’t think your problem is in the networking services then having the
network turned on for your system will allow you to access resources you might need
on the network or Internet for diagnosis.

■ No GUI Boot—Does not display the Windows Vista splash screen when you are booting.
Instead, as mentioned earlier, the Aurora screen appears.

■ Boot Log—Stores information from the boot process in a log located in %systemroot%
called ntbtlog.txt. These logs can be sent to other technicians for their opinion on
what might be causing your system to crash.

■ Base Video—Just like VGA mode in times past, this mode loads the system with standard VGA drivers instead of those that specifically relate to your hardware. This option is good for eliminating problems with video drivers.

■ OS Boot Information—Shows all the drivers during the boot process as they load up.

■ Make All Boot Settings Permanent—Usually when you make changes, you can undo
them simply by selecting the Normal boot process from the General tab (as mentioned
earlier). But if you select this option, those changes can still be undone; however, the
caveat is you have to manually go back and uncheck the options you’ve checked.

■ Timeout Settings—You can configure different countdowns for your multiboot systems.
You can try to type in what you like, but it will ask for a number between 3 seconds
and 999 seconds.

■ Advanced Settings—These advanced options enable you to configure such things as the
number of processors, the amount of memory, and Global Debug settings. Keep in mind
that these options are last-resort choices to diagnose your systems and are usually used
under the direction of Microsoft support services.

Changing Motherboards

Before you swap out the current motherboard go to device manager and select the IDE ATA/ATAPI Controller and select your current storage controller.

Right click, select update driver and select install from a list or specific location.

Click don't search I will choose the driver to install and select the standard dual channel IDE controller.

This will prevent the inaccessable boot device blue screen.

I have done this multiple times on different platforms with no problems.

Also I found that booting the first time with the new motherboard is best done in the Safe mode where XP will install the drivers it needs and at the same time you can install the new motherboard drivers from its CD.

This saved me doing a repair or a reinstall of XP. My whole system came right up and worked great and very stable.

Basic Network Troubleshooting

If a computer is unable to connect to a network or see other computers on a network, it may be necessary to troubleshoot the network.

A network may not work because of any of the below reasons.

1. Network card not connected properly.
2. Bad network card drivers or software settings
3. Firewall preventing computers from seeing each other
4. Connection Problem
5. Bad network hardware

Because of the large variety of network configurations, operating systems, setup, etc... not all of the below information may apply to your network or operating system. If your computer is connected to a company or large network, or you are not the administrator of the network, it is recommended that if you are unable to resolve your issues after following the below recommendations that you contact the network administrator or company representative.

Note: If you are being prompted for a Network password and do not know the password, Service providers are able to assist users with obtaining a new or finding out the old password.

Verify connections / LEDs

Verify that the network cable is properly connected to the back of the computer. In addition, when checking the connection of the network cable, ensure that the LEDs on the network are properly illuminated. For example, a network card with a solid green LED or light usually indicates that the card is either connected or receiving a signal. Note: generally, when the green light is flashing, this is an indication of data being sent or received.

If, however, the card does not have any lights or has orange or red lights, it is possible that either the card is bad, the card is not connected properly, or that the card is not receiving a signal from the network.

If you are on a small or local network and have the capability of checking a hub or switch, verify that the cables are properly connected and that the hub or switch has power.
Adapter resources

Ensure that if this is a new network card being installed into the computer that the card's resources are properly set and/or are not conflicting with any hardware in the computer.

Users who are using Windows 95, 98, ME, 2000 or XP, verify that Device Manager has no conflicts or errors.

Adapter functionality

Verify that the network card is capable of pinging or seeing itself by using the ping command. Windows / MS-DOS users ping the computer from a MS-DOS prompt. Unix / Linux variant users ping the computer from the shell.

To ping the card or the localhost, type either

ping 127.0.0.1

or

ping localhost

This should show a listing of replies from the network card. If you receive an error or if the transmission failed, it is likely that either the network card is not physically installed into the computer correctly, or that the card is bad.

Protocol

Verify that the correct protocols are installed on the computer. Most networks today will utilize TCP/IP, but may also utilize or require IPX/SPX and NetBEUI.

When the TCP/IP protocol is installed, unless a DNS server or other computer assigns the IPX address, the user must specify an IP address as well as a Subnet Mask. To do this, follow the below instructions.

Click Start / Settings / Control Panel

Double-click the Network icon

Within the configuration tab double-click the TCP/IP protocol icon. Note: Do not click on the PPP or Dial-Up adapter, click on the network card adapter.

In the TCP/IP properties click the IP address tab

Select the option to specify an IP address

Enter the IP address and Subnet Mask address, an example of such an address could be:

IP Address: 102.55.92.1
Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.192


When specifying these values, the computers on the network must all have the same Subnet Mask and have a different IP Address. For example, when using the above values on one computer you would want to use an IP address of 102.55.92.2 on another computer and then specify the same Subnet Mask.

Firewall

If your computer network utilizes a firewall, ensure that all ports required are open. If possible, close the firewall software program or disconnect the computer from the firewall to ensure it is not causing the problem.

Additional time

In some cases it may take a computer some additional time to detect or see the network. If after booting the computer you are unable to see the network, give the computer 2-3 minutes to detect the network. Windows users may also want to try pressing the F5 (refresh) key when in Network Neighborhood to refresh the network connections and possibly detect the network.

If after following or verifying the above recommendations you are still unable to connect or see the network, attempt one or more of the below recommendations.

If you have installed or are using TCP/IP as your protocol you can attempt to ping another computer's IP address to verify if the computer is able to send and receive data. To do this, Windows or MS-DOS users must be at a prompt and Linux / Unix variant users must open or be at a shell.

Once at the prompt assuming, that the address of the computer you wish to attempt to ping is 102.55.92.2, you would type:

ping 102.55.92.2

If you receive a response back from this address (and it is a different computer), this demonstrates that the computer is communicating over the network. If you are still unable to connect or see the network, it is possible that other issues may be present.

Another method of determining network issues is to use the tracert command if you are a MS-DOS or Windows user or the traceroute command if you are a Linux / Unix variant user. To use this command you must be at the command prompt or shell.

Once at the prompt, assuming that the address is again 102.55.92.2, type:

tracert 102.55.92.2

or

traceroute 102.55.92.2

This should begin listing the hops between the computer and network devices. When the connection fails, determine which device is causing the issue by reviewing the traceroute listing.

Related:

Not A Valid Win32 Application Error

File is corrupt, bad, or missing.
File is not designed for your version of Windows.
File is a virus, worm, or other malware file.
Hardware incompatibility.

File is corrupt, bad, or missing

If the file or program you're attempting to run is corrupt or missing, Windows will be unable to execute the file properly and sometimes generate this error message.

Download files

If you downloaded this file and verified it is a file that will work with your version of Windows, delete the file and try downloading and running it again. It's possible during the download that the file became corrupted.

Finally, if the second download does not work, try downloading the file from a different webpage. It is possible that the person or company maintaining the website mistakenly uploaded a corrupt version of the file you're attempting download.

Installing a program from a CD or other disk

If you're attempting to install a program and are getting this error, verify that the CD is clean. If the CD is dirty or bad, you could get this error during the install and/or get this error after the program has been installed because it was not copied properly onto the computer.

Running a program from the computer

If you're running the program from a shortcut on the computer, verify that the program is still on the computer. In some cases if the program is no longer installed on the computer you may get this error.

If the hard disk drive is corrupted or bad it can also cause working programs to fail either because not all the data can be read from the hard disk drive or because the program has become corrupted while on the drive. Run scandisk and defrag on the hard disk drive to check for any potential errors.

Long file name error

Make sure the program or file you're attempting to run does not contain the same name as the long file name directory it is contained in. For example, executing a file named "program" in the "program files" directory can cause errors in some versions of Windows.

Bad file

Any file can be changed or renamed to be a .exe file. If you're downloading the file, make sure the file is supposed to be a .exe file and that it's not being changed. If you're attempting to create a .exe, file make sure you're compiling the file for Windows and never just rename a file to a .exe file. For example, renaming a .bat file to a .exe file will not make the file an executable file. For a file to become an executable file it needs to either be compiled or converted through a software program designed to convert the file.

File is not designed for your version of Windows

If you're trying to run a program that is not designed for your version of Windows you may get this error. Although many older programs designed to work in older versions of Windows will work with new versions of Windows, unfortunately, not all programs will work.

If the program is an older MS-DOS program or early Windows program you may get this error.

If the program is designed for a 64-bit version of Windows and you're running it in a 32-bit version of Windows, it will not work and generate this error.

If you're attempting to run an older computer game in a new version of Windows, Read this about getting older games to work in Windows.

File is a virus, worm, or other malware file

This error can be generated by a file that is a virus, worm, trojan, or other type of malware file. Often, this will be caused because the virus scanner installed in the computer will not allow the file to be installed or run. Try scanning the file to verify it is not a virus and/or infected.

If the file has been checked and is clean, it is still possible that the virus protection program and/or another program installed on the computer is causing issues during the install or execution of the program. Boot the computer into Safe Mode and try running the program; booting the computer into Safe Mode will make sure nothing is running in the background that could be causing this error.

Hardware incompatibility

If you're getting this error during the installation of a program it's also possible that the CD-ROM drive or the drive you're installing the program from is not compatible with Windows or has drivers that are not compatible with Windows.

Download the latest drivers for your CD drive through the Device drivers page.

Problems in Windows after installing new Software

After installing any type of utility, driver or other software program on a computer you can encounter an almost endless list of error that can be caused by any reasons.
1. Confliction with other software installed on the computer.
2. Bug error with the program.
3. Improper installation or problems with installation

Reinstall or uninstall the program

If you're encountering problems with your computer or other programs after installing new software on your computer attempt to uninstall the program and see if the issues persist.

After the program has been uninstalled try installing the program again.

Note: If after installing a program you're unable to boot into Windows, try booting into Safe Mode.

Check for software program updates or new versions

If you continue to experience issues verify that the program, game, or utility you're installing doesn't have any updates by visiting the developer of the program website.

If you're installing a software program or drivers for a hardware device such as a printer. Attempt to get the latest software and/or drivers from the manufacturer instead of using the included software or Check the Manufacturers Website for more details.

Windows Restarts or Shutdown without Warning

This Error could be caused by any of the following possibilities.
1. Software error
2. Hardware error
3. Heat Problem
4. Computer virus
5. Operating system Error

Software Error

Errors generated by software programs can cause a computer to reboot unexpectedly or without warning. If you are running Windows XP see the below section "For Windows XP users" before continuing.

If you are not running Windows XP or following the below steps still cause your computer to reboot without warning. Boot your computer into Safe Mode, and let the computer run in Safe Mode.

If the computer is still rebooting in Safe Mode the error is likely not software related but something else, skip to the next section. If the computer is not rebooting in Safe Mode it is likely you have software related error.

Note: Automatic Restart in Windows Xp, is a process to protect from hardware failure if it is caused by a Software/Driver Error.

For Windows XP users

Windows XP is designed to automatically reboot each time an error occurs such as a Blue Screen of Death or BSoD. Although this may be nice for errors that do not occur often, users who have a re-occurring error may wish to identify the error to troubleshoot it. Below are the steps on how this feature can be disabled and enabled in Windows XP.
From the desktop right-click on My Computer.
Click the Properties option.
In the System Properties window click the Advanced tab.
In Advanced click the Settings button under Startup and Recovery.
In the Startup and Recovery window uncheck the Automatically restart check box.
Click Ok.

Now if the computer generates and error it should not automatically restart and enable you to display any errors your computer may be experiencing.

Hardware Error

Any failing hardware component in your computer could cause your computer to unexpectedly generate an error and/or reboot without warning. If you have recently attempted to add a new hardware device, remove that device to make sure it is not causing your errors.Make sure you are not encountering any hardware conflicts by viewing Device Manager for errors.

New drivers can also cause this error, if you have recently performed any hardware driver updates you may wish to try an earlier version of the drivers.

If you have updated drivers and removed any hardware that could be causing this error and continue to experience random reboots, it's possible that the memory is bad in the computer.

Computer virus

Computer viruses such as the blaster virus are written to reboot your computer without warning. Usually these viruses will make the computer reboot ever 5, 10, 15 or 30 minutes after the computer has booted.

If you believe your computer may be infected with a virus or are uncertain if your computer is infected with a virus make sure your virus scanner definitions are up to date.

Heat Problem

Many computer today are designed to turn off or automatically reboot if the computer, processor, or other device in your computer gets to hot. If you have heard any abnormal noises coming from your computer recently such as a high squealing this could indicate a fan may be failing in your computer.

You can first start by verifying the fan on the power supply is working by examining the back of the computer and seeing if the fan is moving and moving smoothly. For all other fans in the computer you will need to either open the computer and make sure the fan are working (processor fan and case fan) and/or if your BIOS monitors the RPM of the fans enter BIOS and make sure the BIOS does not report any errors.

Users may also be able to determine how hot their computer is by onboard thermal sensors, if your computer comes equipped with these sensors make sure your CPU is not running to hot.

Problem with Operating system

If after following each of the above recommendations your computer still continues to reboot it is likely that you are experiencing a Microsoft Windows operating system problem that cannot be explained. To help make sure this is the case please try the below steps.

Reboot the computer and enter CMOS setup as the computer is booting.
After you have loaded the computer in CMOS setup let the computer sit.

If the computer does not reboot while letting the computer sit in CMOS it is likely that you are in fact experiencing an error with Microsoft Windows and it is recommend that if you have followed all of the above recommendations that you reinstall your version of Microsoft Windows.

Note: Operatng System is Mainly Damaged from Virus attacks and also from lack of Security, or if you are using an Microsoft Windows Make sure you have Windows Xp Service Pack 2.Service Packs can lightly rescue your system from light errors.

Windows Programs Stop Responding

A computer, operating system, software program or driver may stop responding or cause other programs to stop responding because of several possible reasons, such as a confliction of software or hardware resources between two programs, lack of system resources, or a bug (A term used to describe Errors with hardware or software.) in the software or drivers. Computer software bugs are often resolved by running a software patches and resolvable hardware bugs are fixed with firmware updates and/or replacement of hardware components.

To recover from a program that has stopped responding, a user can generally press the CTRL + ALT + DEL keys on his or her keyboards to open the "Close Program" window or open the "Task Manager" window and click the "End Task" button to terminate by selecting the program. If another window opens, click the "End Task" button again to confirm stopping that program.

It is important to realize that when a program stops responding any work that has not been saved will more than likely be lost when end tasking a program.

Related:

Windows Freezes or Stops Responding All times

The problem could be caused by any of the below possibilities.

Software
Drivers
Operating System Error caused by viruses
Heat
Hardware Failure
Serious issue with Windows

If the computer frequently freezes or completely halts. An easy way to determine if your computer is in this situation is by pressing the Num Lock button on the keyboard and watching the Num Lock led to see if it turns off and/or on.

If you're able to get the light to turn off an on, press CTRL + ALT + DEL and attempt to end task the program.

Software Error

A computer locking up or freezing is often is caused by a software error. If you're encountering lockups when the computer is opening a particular program, make sure you have all the latest updates for that program. Find the latest updates for your software through the software developer or publisher or from their Websites.

Drivers Error

A computer lock up can also be caused by drivers. For example, if there is an error that exists with your video drivers a computer could lock up while playing a game or displaying any other type of video. Make sure you have the latest drivers for all major devices in your computer (video, sound, modem, and network). A listing of driver related pages as well as driver related help can be found on drivers homepage.

Operating System Errors

Make sure your operating system has all of the latest updates installed on it.

Heating Failure

If the computer processor is getting too hot it can cause the computer to freeze. If you have heard any abnormal noises coming from your computer recently such as a high squealing, this could indicate a fan may be failing in your computer.

You can first start by verifying the fan on the power supply is working by examining the back of the computer and seeing if the fan is moving and moving smoothly. For all other fans in the computer you will need to either open the computer and make sure the fan are working (processor fan and case fan) and/or if your BIOS monitors the RPM of the fans, enter BIOS and make sure the BIOS does not report any errors.

Users may also be able to determine how hot their computer is by onboard thermal sensors. If your computer comes equipped with these sensors, make sure your CPU is not running too hot.

Hardware Failure

In addition to software, hardware can also cause a pc to lock. If you have recently added any new hardware into the computer, try temporarily removing it to make sure it is not the cause of your issue.

Before attempting to remove any hardware, make sure you are not encountering this error because of hardware conflicts by viewing Device Manager for errors.

If you have not recently installed any new hardware into the computer, the next best solution to determining if this is a hardware failure would be remove any hardware on the computer that is not needed. For example, remove your modem, network card, sound card, and any other expansion cards that are not needed for the computer to operate. Run the computer without these cards to see if they are the cause of failure.

Note: When opening the computer, make sure you are aware of Electro Static Discharge and its potential dangers.

Serious Error with Windows

If you have tried all the above recommendations and the computer continues to frequently lock up, its possible that Windows may be seriously corrupted. Try running through the basic troubleshooting steps for your version of Windows by repair the windows. If this step do not resolve your error, I suggest you to backup all information that you need (from C:\ or from windows drive, ie windows installed drive, C:,D:)and erase and re-install Windows on your PC.

Hardware Failure

If after reinstalling your operating system, or during the installation of your operating system, your computer turns off abnormally, it is very likely that other hardware is failing in the computer. Often this is RAM, CPU, Motherboard, and/or Power Supply (in that order).

If you have extra available parts or have a friend or co-worker with a similar configuration that is willing to allow you to test their hardware in your computer, try swapping these parts to determine if they are at fault. Otherwise, you will need to have the computer serviced.

Related: How to Repair Windows Xp? An 5 minute easy way

My PC is running slow What steps can I do to fix it?

Cause:
This issue can be caused by any of the below possibilities.
1. Hard disk drive is short on available disk space.
2. Several software programs have been installed/uninstalled leaving behind bad files and/or confusing the software.
3. Data Corruption.
4. Computer is overheating.
5. Bad Hardware.

PC Solution:

Below are steps for Microsoft Windows that should help speed up the computer or determine why the computer is running slow.

Not enough hard disk drive space

If you have a hard disk drive that is 2GB or smaller, ensure that there is at least 200MB of hard disk drive space free. If you have a hard drive larger than this size, verify that there is at least 500MB of free hard disk space. This available space allows the computer to have room for the swap file to increase in size as well as room for temporary files. A temporary file is a file created to hold information temporarily while a file is being created. After the program has original file has been close the temporary file should be deleted. Temporary files are used to help recover lost data if the program or computer is abnormally halted.A specific directory on a storage medium, such as on a hard disk drive, used as a location to store temporary files. Commonly, this directory is named "TEMP". Commonly In WindowsXp, Drive(x):\Documents and Settings\Username\application data\temp. Files and Folders in the Temp folder can Delete.

Hard drive corrupted or fragmented

Run Scandisk or something equivalent to help ensure that there is nothing physically wrong with the computer hard disk drive.

Run Defrag to help ensure that data is arranged in the best possible order.

Background programs

Remove or disable any TSRs or Startup programs that automatically start each time the computer boots. Press and hold ALT + CTRL + DEL and click the Task Manager button or if you're running Windows XP it should immediately open the Windows Task Manager window. Within Task Manger, click the Applications Tab, select the program that you wish to End Task, Select the program and click the End Task button.

Hardware conflicts

Verify that the Device Manager has no conflicts, but if conflicts are present, resolve them.

Issues with Windows XP prefetch

If you have Windows XP try deleting all files in the prefetch directory. These are prefetch files and can lower system resources if loading programs no longer being used. See our prefetch definition for additional information about prefetch.

Issues in Windows 95 / 98 autoexec.bat / config.sys

If you are using Microsoft Windows 95 or Windows 98 and do not plan on running any MS-DOS programs from MS-DOS follow the below steps.
Click Start, Run and type command and press enter.
In the MS-DOS window type cd\ to get to C:\> and then type ren autoexec.bat autoexec.ch and ren config.sys config.ch

This will rename your autoexec.bat and config.sys and help make sure memory is being optimized through Windows.

Computer or processor is overheating

Make sure your computer and processor is not overheating, excessive heat can cause a significant decrease in computer performance some processors will even lower the speed of the processor automatically to help compensate for the heat related issues.

Specific operating system basic troubleshooting

Try running through the basic troubleshooting steps for your operating system.

Erase computer and start over

Finally, if none of the above solutions resolve your issues, it is recommended that you either reinstall Windows and/or erase everything and then start over.

Hardware issues

If your computer continues to be slow after going over each of the above recommendations it's possible that your computer is experiencing a more serious hardware related issue such as a failing component in the computer. This could be a failing or bad CPU, RAM, Motherboard, or other component.