Depending on the type and severity of infection, I whole heartedly agree.Originally Posted by crono_logical
To be honest, I find it's faster, more efficient, and gives better results to reinstall Windows then secure it down (firewall, antivirus, decent browser etc) from the beginning of a clean install if you've got really stubborn malware
I have a problem case that doesn't have a windows CD to reinstall, but wants her computer fixed.. The problem is, the hijackthis text file was over 5 pages long at the start of cleaning. 3-4 very mean pieces of spyware + custom filenames not found on any spyware website, so I assume trojan horse/hacker entry. After cleaning each time she complains with all known spyware utilities, it still has various windows problems(assuming custom registry entries that spyware software hasnt been designed to fix yet), and seems highly prone to reinfection.
If Adaware with VX2 cleaner + Ewido + an antivirus, + posting at a spyware message board and getting a few third party cleaners for smitfraud/vundo/other lovelys.... doesnt clean your system, then reinstall is definately in order. Preferably format/reinstall.
Then fully update that fresh install, offline if possible(service pack 2 slipstreamed on the CD is nice)
Put an antivirus, 2 spyware cleaners(ewido + adaware are my favorite, but don't turn on both background monitors), a firewall(hardware and software preferred), spywareblaster for activeX protection, and ie-spyads to restrict scripting on 10,000+ bad websites.
overkill? Havent had a virus/spyware in 4 years
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