FAQs: Windows XP Virus Removal

Virus Removal Instructions - Windows XP

 

The following are directions for removing the viruses from your computer. Please pay attention to the order in which you perform these steps. Performing steps out of order may cause problems.

Step 1: Download & save all files; print this document

Before you can begin fixing your computer, you'll have to download all the necessary files (below) and print this document. While you are disinfecting your computer, it will not be connected to a network, so you will not be able to access these files.

Step 2: Disconnect Your Computer from the Network

Your computer should not be physically connected to a network (e.g., cable modem, DSL, Ethernet). Unplug your network cable from the Ethernet or phone jack and do not reconnect it until you have finished this process.

Step 3: Disable System Restore

  1. Right-click on My Computer.
  2. From the drop-down menu, choose Properties.
  3. Click the System Restore tab.
  4. Select Turn off System Restore.
  5. Click OK.

Step 4: Install Anti-Virus Software

  1. Download McAfee VirusScan v8.5i from www.software.utah.edu with your uNID and password;
    McAfee VirusScan v 8.5i for students OR McAfee VirusScan v 8.5i for faculty/staff
  2. Install the software using the Installation Wizard.
  3. Install the update file.
  4. Re-start your computer.
Note: The version of McAfee you downloaded does not come with the latest virus updates and definitions. Make sure you install the update file before scanning. To effectively remove viruses, please make sure you agree to uninstall or remove previous versions of VirusScan.


Step 5: Scan for Viruses

Start Your Computer in Safe Mode

  1. Re-start your computer.
  2. While the computer is starting, press F8 repeatedly.
  3. On the Windows startup menu, select Safe Mode, and then press Enter.

Scan for Viruses

  1. Go to Programs > Network Associates > VirusScan Console.
  2. On the VirusScan Console window, select Scan All Fixed Disks.
  3. On the VirusScan On-Demand Scan properties screen, select Scan Now. This will take some time, but it is important that you make sure the viruses have been removed.
  4. Take note of the names of any viruses found during your scan. You will need to report this to the Campus Help Desk when you call later to have your Internet access re-enabled.

Step 6: Update Service Pack

Update Windows XP Service Pack

  1. Open the Windows XP service pack from where you saved it.
  2. On the File Download window, click Save.
  3. Once the download is complete, click Open. The Windows XP Service Pack Setup Wizard will open.
  4. Click Next.
  5. On the License Agreement screen, click " I agree," then click Next.
  6. On the Select Options window, when prompted to archive files, choose "No." The Wizard will begin updating your system.
  7. When the update is complete, select Re-start now, then click Finish.

Step 7: Enable System Restore

  1. Right-click on My Computer.
  2. From the drop-down menu, choose Properties.
  3. Click the System Restore tab.
  4. De-select Turn off System Restore.
  5. Click OK.

Step 8: Reconnect Your Computer to the Network

Step 9: Setup Windows Security Center

  1. Click the Start button and then Control Panel.
  2. Double click the shield icon for Security Center.
  3. Follow the prompts to ensure there is a green light and the word 'ON' for the Firewall, Automatic Updates and Virus Protection sections.

Once you have finished disinfecting your computer, you must visit or call the Campus Help Desk (581-4000 option 1) to have your network connection re-enabled.

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For more information on virus removal, contact the Campus Help Desk at 581-4000 option 1.