computer problems after removing virus.... please help.

[jbrauer]

hello, i run windows XP and recently had a piece of malware removed from my computer, after removing the virus i restarted my computer.
i cannot open about 98% of web pages...  my internet is not the problem, but it isn't internet explorer either because i installed firefox to see if that fixes the problem.
and suggestions on the problem would be greatly appreciated.

[patio]

You're probably still infected...

Clik Here...

[jbrauer]

i have tried scanning, and rescanning, and a few boot scans with my anti-virus, it doesnt find anything.
i think when it tried to stop the virus it deleted something that may have messed with my computer, and made it so i can not open web pages.

[Azzaboi]

Viruses can change a lot, depending on what type...


Check your HOSTS file: C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc

Once you have found your HOSTS file, right-click on the HOSTS file, and then select Open. You will be asked to choose a program to use. Select Notepad, but make sure you that you do NOT turn on any option to always use the same program.

Anything else that appears in your HOSTS file without an # at the beginning, apart from the "127.0.0.1 localhost" line, should be viewed with suspicion when we are trying to diagnose the cause of "Page cannot be displayed" errors. You can temporary comment them with # at the front of the line to check. Reply back if you think there is something fishy added to your hosts.


Sometimes Internet Explorer is unable to access the Internet if software known as Layered Service Provider (LSP) has been removed incorrectly from a computer or previously infected.

Start, then Run and type CMD in the dialogue box that appears, and then click OK. Type netsh winsock reset into the DOS window that appears.

[jbrauer]

thank you, ill try that as soon as i can.

[Carnifex]

I recommend you backup your important files, reformat your HDD(s), then reinstall your OS.

More could be changed than the HOSTS file. A hacker could have added a backdoor to your security so you'll be easier to infect again in the future.

Anytime your computer is infected to that extent, a clean reinstallation of your OS is generally the most effective and safest cure for the problems caused.