Computer won't start

[Snitz]

Hey guys.

My wife's computer had a problem about 8 months ago. We didn't know who to go to then. It started getting popups, then we tried to put AVG on it and it said she had a trojan. After a few days it just didn't come on one day. The power would come on, but nothing would boot up. It's been like that ever since.

Any ideas what we could/should do?

Thanks so much.

[NonSuch]

What you are describing sounds very much like the system just became so overwhelmed by malware that it could no longer boot up. If that is the case, a reformat of the HD and reinstallation of the operating system should get the system back up and running again.

Unless you are comfortable with doing a reformat and reinstallation of the OS yourself, I would suggest you take the computer in to a trusted shop in your area.

[Snitz]

is it possible to do a reformat and reinstallation when the computer will not boot up?

[NonSuch]

Yes, as long as you can access the BIOS and change the boot sequence to allow the system to boot from the CD drive. Once that is done, just insert your installation media in the CD drive and then restart the computer and follow the onscreen instructions.

If your operating system is XP, and you have your Windows XP CD, good illustrated instructions for a clean install can be found here:

http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/wi ... _clean.asp

Read instruction #3, and then skip over 4, 5, 6, and 7. Begin with Step-by-Step: Clean installing Windows XP (Interactive Setup).

If you have the computer manufacturer's restore disk(s) rather than an XP disk, follow the directions that came with the restore disks. (Instructions might also be on the disk label).

Before you begin, download your choice of anti-virus product to CD, or have a purchased installation disk ready. As soon as you've finished installing your operating system, then install your anti-virus and check to make sure your Windows Firewall is active. Do this prior to going online to get all needed Windows updates for your system. If you take your system online before it is properly protected, it will very shortly become infected.

[askey127]

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