Add/Remove Programs opens then auto closes

Hmmm......having the current one is definately better than none at all, but IMO, you should have something better NOW....who knows when SP2 will be released and only time will tell if the new firewall will be as good as what you can get third party. Decisions, decisions....only you can make that call.

Not knowing which popup blocker you installed, I can on say...be CAREFUL! Some of them are worse than having popups....spyware and such included. All that is really needed is the Google Toolbar or the MSN Toolbar. Both are lightweight, easily configured and work well. Specials features included too.

Glad things are back to normal for you again.

 

Nargh

You need a firewall, if you are going online. XP's native firewall only blocks some incoming traffic, and doesn't do that as well as most third party software. Do a search on the security forum for recommendations- there are many choices, some free, some not free, but reasonably priced.

Also, have a look at Black Viper's services configurations. You can further enhance your computer's security and performance by disabling services you are not using. I wonder if the ads "popping up" are from Messenger? Admin Tools> Services> scroll to "Messenger" and disable. This service is used to send fast messages over networks, and spammers have been exploiting it.

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

Good luck to you, glad you got it sorted out.

Johanna

 

Been afc.

Nargh,

Sorry I haven't been available for a day and a half. I knew my last post would get you some attention!

You've had excellent help; hope this takes care of everything, and post back anytime.

 

Problems solved.

Hi Guys,

I shall indeed look into getting a proper firewall after my experiences of the last couple of days. I was amazed just how quickly a unprotected newly loaded machine received an 'attack'. Only a few seconds!

I have looked at Black Vipers site and I shall be implementing further changes to my computers having read his info. Thanks Johanna for the link.

The popup stopper software I use is from Panicware. I have used it before and recommend it.

Thanks again to all.........

 

Good decision nargh! Some freebies here. Zone Alarm, Kerio and Sygate are the most popular and work well. Steve Jones just posted a link to a utility that will help you easily manage the services. It's here. Hope you find it useful.

 

nargh - I ran the panicware pop up stopper for several years. Liked it well too.

I have recently (3-4 months ago maybe) loaded the Google toolbar with the pop-up blocker that is part of the newest version. Like it MUCH better. Have since gotten rid of the panicware app on both PCs at home.