virus or spyware

[saleen31]

I have 3 friends with this problem. Windows installer doesnt work. An error message pops up saying its not enabled or needs to be reinstalled (i tried reinstalling the installer service, but that itself wont install). No programs can be installed or removed (cause of the installer service). You cannot copy, cut or paste anything (cant copy or paste text, or documents to other folders, ect.). Also one the computers taskbar has disappeared all together. Also, adaware, spybot, and microsofts adware do not pick up anything, and the virus scanner (mcafee cannot be updated). Is this a virus or spyware stuff. Is there any alternative other than reformatting?? Thanks.

[Rocketmech]

Have you tried System Restore or anything in Safe Mode ?

Might suggest trying UBCD for Windows and run a scan ...check Tech Tools in the General Forum.

A Repair install of XP is pretty safe , no data is lost. But, your CD must include the current Service Pack thats installed on the pc. You can slipstream easy enough with Autostreamer http://www.autopatcher.com/autostreamer.html

[Strawbs]

WinXP? there's an updated installer on the WU site for SP-2 machines.

[saleen31]

yeah i forgot to mention, when i go to windows update, no page is displayed. Theres no error, the title bar says windows update or whatever, but the browser page is just blank. Its win XP

[BipolarBill]

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...DisplayLang=en