ZoneAlarm very annoying problems

[Tbag]

I installed window media player 10 and then restarted my computer, when it came back on a message came us reading:

Validation failed for c:\windows\system32\ZONELABS\vsmondll.dll.

If i click ok it just pops up again and stays there.

I then tryed to uninstall ZoneAlarm but another pop up came reading:

TrueVector Internet Monitor was not uninstalled.

The uninstaller was not able to stop the True Vector software services. This will happen if other software is using the True Vector engine.
To uninstall ZoneAlarm make sure all other True Vector based programs have been closed.

right now i feel like breaking the computer because i was installing software back bit by bit without any problems so that that I can use true image to back it up whilst its running ok and if if i see the word True Vector again i am gonna scream so im gonna take 30 mins.

[guns1inger]

Have you tried manually stopping the true vector service, then uninstalling, rebooting, and installing again ?

[Tbag]

Have you tried manually stopping the true vector service, then uninstalling, rebooting, and installing again ?

i have no idea what true vector is.

is there a better free firewall than ZA?

[bevills1]

Try shutting down Zonealarm first which should stop True Vector, and then try unistalling Zonealarm.

[Wile_E]

is there a better free firewall than ZA?

Depends if you want easy to setup firewall like ZoneAlarm, or customization with rules, etc. ZoneAlarm used to be good, but they lost my trust after they were caught phoning home encrypted information to their servers. Possibly to NSA from what I've read. I use Outpost Pro Firewall and have set up advanced rules for every program that needs internet access.

Zone Alarm phones home
http://www.infoworld.com/article/06/01/13/73792_03OPcringley_1.html

Sunbelt Kerio Firewall $19
http://www.sunbelt-software.com/Kerio.cfm

Outpost Pro Firewall
http://www.agnitum.com/products/outpost/

[Tbag]

Try shutting down Zonealarm first which should stop True Vector, and then try unistalling Zonealarm.

Its doesnt even load up

[Barnabas]

Dump Zone Alarm Pro. I had used it for years, but last year, the updates made it crash all the time. I now use PC-Cillin and not one crash.

[VegasBud]

i have no idea what true vector is.

TrueVector is the core that the ZoneAlarm program runs on top of. It runs as a "service", which is why guns1inger suggested that you "...manually stop...the true vector service, then uninstalling...". If you click Start - Run - and put services.msc in the box, you will find the TrueVector service in the list. If you right click on it, then click on "Stop", it will stop the TrueVector service, which (in theory) will let you uninstall ZoneAlarm.

When my sister had a similiar problem, that didn't work for her. If that happens to you, you can use msconfig (Start - Run - put msconfig in the box). On the "Startup" tab, remove the checkmark next to anything that refers to ZoneAlarm or TrueVector, and let the computer reboot. Then uninstall ZoneAlarm.

[adam]

I'm having similar problems. This program has serious issues. add/remove software says it can't uninstall because another program is using vsmon, but I don't believe its talking about the TrueVector service. In the service tab its turned off and if you try to start it, it again says that it cannot because another program is using vsmon already.

Trying to rerun the install program says it cannot do it without starting Truevector service. And I'm not able to open the zonealarm program at all. Turning off Truvector in msconfig doesn't help. It seems I actually need to turn it on in order to unisnstall the program.

So is there anyway to analze what programs are running another program? I want to see what is using vsmon so I can shut it down. I don't see anything abnormal running in task manager or the services tab.

Sorry to hijack vijaygunners but maybe a solution for me will also help you.

[VegasBud]

adam,

I'm sorry to hear someone has a worse case of ZoneAlarm-itis than my sister. If msconfig didn't stop it from starting, you can try Autoruns by SysInternals. Here's the web page for it. It's like msconfig on steroids.

If that doesn't work, or you just feel like investigating what's going on, you can use Process Explorer (also by SysInternals) available on this page.

Just in case, here's a link to the entire SysInternals Processes & Threads toolbox. I know something in there will end the whack-a-mole with ZoneAlarm.

By the way, vsmon.exe is the executable that loads the TrueVector service.

[kosz]

You know if you guys would read the help files it tells you how to uninstall ZA open ZA then click overview then preferences and uncheck the box that says start ZA at startup and then reboot then you can remove ZA

[Scorpion King]

Read the directions......

It sounded like more fun editing services and msconfig. How about regedit... nobody mentioned that yet.

LMAO here...

[adam]

kosz. Like I said, ZA will not even open. It sounds like vijaygunners's won't even load up either.

[kosz]

Is what it is there all to damn lazy and want everybody else to do there work for them

[kosz]

Try this


Zone Labs Customer Care

This Information Applies to:

All ZoneAlarm Products

Summary:

If you want to fully uninstall and do not plan to reinstall ZA+/ZAP on Windows NT4, or if you received this from Tech Support as a solution to your issue.

Solution:

(NOTE - If you get error messages regarding a missing VSUTIL file, try this first : Search for VSUTIL.DLL on your system. If you find a copy in the SYSTEM32 folder ONLY, under the main WINNT folder, try copying that file to the main WINNT folder, then try the Install again. If it still fails, then you will need to perform the steps below. Do NOT copy a file located in any McAfee or Network Associates folder, that is a different program!)

DO NOT INSTALL ANY PREVIOUS VERSION FIRST - Simply perform the clean install instructions below, then install ONLY the version you wish to install.

In order to completely remove ZA+/ZAP from your system, please do the following. If any of the steps below do not apply to you, or you are unable to perform the function listed, CONTINUE on to the next step.

If you plan to reinstall then, before starting, please be sure to download the latest version. Remember that while the download versions are called Trial, it becomes the FULL version once you enter your current, valid license key. To find out if your key is valid, click Configure > Change Key. Your expiration date and time will appear directly underneath the license number. If your key is not valid, use the following link to renew: http://www.zonelabs.com/renew
DOWNLOAD LINKS :
For ZoneAlarm:
http://www.zonelabs.com/zadownload
For ZoneAlarm Pro:
http://www.zonelabs.com/zapdownload

==============================================


** Use ONLY the primary Administrator account if possible (i.e. log in with the username ADMINISTRATOR). If you are unable to do so, then try a user account with Administrative rights. ** If the machine is part of a domain, you should have the Network Administrator help you.

Please do the following. If any of the steps below do not apply to you, or you are unable to perform the function listed, please continue to the next step. If you are unable to remove any files, make a note of the file AND location (example: C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32 \VSDATA.DLL).

Open the ZoneAlarm Pro program, go to the OVERVIEW -> PREFERENCES tab, and make sure the Load At Startup box is UNchecked. Close the ZA Control Panel.
Right-click on the ZA icon, and select Shutdown. Wait several minutes before going on.
REBOOT.
You should now have no ZA processes running on your system.
Now click Start -> Programs -> Zone Labs -> Uninstall. Be sure to say YES to any security checks.
REBOOT.
To make sure that you can see any ZA system files, if they are still on your computer:
a. Right-click on Start button, then left-click on Explore. When the Windows Explorer panel appears, click View -> Options. Click the "View" tab, then click the "Show all files" radio button.
b. Make sure you also UNcheck the box to "Hide Protected Operating System Files" if you have one.
c. Click OK.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Making modifications to system files may disable crucial functions of your Windows operating system. We strongly suggest re-enabling the "Hide files and folders" feature once all ZA files have been removed.
Click on Start, then Search or Find, and select Files. Make sure that the location box is set to search your local hard drive (usually C , or All Local Drives.
Type each of the following exactly - delete any folders found:
zonelabs
“zone labs”
“Internet logs”


Type the following exactly - delete any files found in \Windows or any subfolder below it, or in your \Temp folder):
vsdata.dll
vsdata95.vxd
vsdatant.sys
vsmon.*
vsmonapi.dll
vsnetutils.dll
vspubapi.dll
zaplus.*
zapro.*
zllictbl.dat
zlparser.dll
zonealarm.exe

vsutil.dll (please right-click filename, then Properties -> Version.
Do NOT delete this file unless it it a Zone Labs file!)

Type the following exactly - delete any files found in any folder with "Programs" in the pathname:

zapro
zonealarm
"zonealarm pro"


Make sure your Recycle Bin is empty (right-click and select Empty).
REBOOT
NOTE: If you received an error message upon deleting the files, or if the original programs remain in the Programs list, or if the problem persists after this, then it is likely that the TrueVector Service is still running. In that case please continue on to the next section.
****************************************
IF YOU COULD NOT DELETE ALL FILES
** Start with #1. Once you successfully remove all the files, DO NOT GO ON. At that point, Empty your recycle Bin, and reboot.
Make a list of the files that you could not remove, and try to delete the files at each step.
Click Start -> Control Panel -> Services. Find the TrueVector service. Stop the service. If you have a password set on ZAP you will need that password in order to shut down the service. Once the service is stopped, delete the files as described above, and reboot. If you get a message that the system is unable to shut down the service, leave the Services window open and continue to #3.
Change the startup mode for the TrueVector service. Normally it is set to Automatically start. Change this to Disabled, then reboot without the service running. You should then be able to delete the files as described above. If you are unable to change the startup mode for the TrueVector Service, continue to #4.
Click Start -> Search, and search your hard drive for a file named VSMON.EXE. Make a note of the exact folder this file is located in, and leave this Search window open. Now open a command prompt window (Start -> Run -> type CMD). Type the following commands, hitting the ENTER key after each one. Substitute the actual folder name for .
CD (ex: "CD C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\ZONELABS") VSMON.EXE -UNLOAD (wait up to a minute for the service to shut down)
Then delete the files as described above. If the service is still unable to shut down, or gives an error, continue to #5.
Using the same search as before, locate the file named VSMON.EXE. Right-click on the filename, and rename this to VSMON.OLD, then reboot. Now you should be able to delete the files as described above. Once you remove the files and empty the Recycle Bin, be sure to rename this file back to the original name. If you received any errors, continue to #6.
You will need to create a boot disk. Use the instructions located at the link below :
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;q119467
Important - If you have SCSI hard drives, you MUST include the SCSI drivers on your boot disk, or you will not be able to access the hard drive! Use the instructions from Microsoft to boot the system. Delete the file(s) as described above:
EXAMPLE : You were unable to delete the file C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32 \VSDATA.DLL. You would type
DEL C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\VSDATA.DLL
Continue until you have deleted all of the remaining files on your list.
If you receive an error trying to delete these files because they are "hidden", "system" or "read-only", you will need to change the attributes of the file before deleting. At the command prompt, type the following:
ATTRIB -A -H -R -S C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\VSDATA.DLL DEL C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\VSDATA.DLL
Remove the boot disk once you are done deleting all the files mentioned, and then reboot the system normally (CTR-ALT-DEL). The settings should be back to the original installation defaults.

[adam]

kosz I tried all the steps except using a boot disc, and I have no problem deleting every file and reference to ZA except for vsmon.exe and vsmon.dll. Its the same thing everytime, something is using the program. Its not the TrueVector Service. I have it disabled in service manager. Breaking out my old floppy drive now to try the final step.

VegasBud, I'm trying those programs as well and as of yet can't find what is running vsmon. Thanks though. I'll keep searching. Just to be clear, I am logged in as adminstrator.

kosz and Scorpion King. You two need to realize that even legitimate software can still cause real problems. There is never ANY shame in asking for help and that is the very thing this site is intended to be used for. If you have nothing better to do than point and laugh at other people's problems than please just go away.

[GKar]

There was a lot to read here but have you tried System Restore to prior to when you first installed Zonealarm or Media Played 10?

I prefer using a Norton Ghost image of a clean or current updated install than System Restore. Belated I know, but this helps avert most of these software disasters when they happen by a simple Ghost restore.

I prefer Kerio Free 2.1.5 with a Nat Router to Zonealarm, pretty much covers all bases with few problems if any....

[kosz]

Its not the TrueVector Service. I have it disabled in service manager. Breaking out my old floppy drive now to try the final step.

Reinable the service and then reboot to safe mode and then you should be able to remove those two files

[InXess]

Why not try Safe Mode... and either uninstall or manual uninstall/cleanup. Worst case scenario, install uninstaller utility, reinstall ZA, uninstall with this utility. It's log will show all mods performed. As far as I remember SoftIce or similar hacking tools will show all the threads, triggers... but first you would need to get familiar with the tool itself.

[Tbag]

im gonna dump ZA and restore my computer, what free firewall shall I use that is good?
can you name some good but non-free ones aswell

thanks

[marshalljames]

Although no longer supported (because it was such a good program Symantec ('')
bought it and folded the company).I still use the sygate.you can still find the last version if you look for it.as a basic firewall it still works fine and always notifies me of changes.and works well with the basic windows firewall.

[adam]

Reinable the service and then reboot to safe mode and then you should be able to remove those two files

Like I said, I an unable to start the TruVector service. It tells me that Vsmon is being used by another program. I have tried safe mode as well.

I don't use system restore I use Ghost Image. But I just moved and all of my software is in storage for 2 more weeks. If I don't find a solution by then I'll load my fresh install image.

[bevills1]

Vijaygunners, it most likely doesn't startup due to an incomplete uninstall. Try installing it again, then shut it down and finally unistall with Zonealarm shit down.

[Tbag]

Vijaygunners, it most likely doesn't startup due to an incomplete uninstall. Try installing it again, then shut it down and finally unistall with Zonealarm shit down.

i have tried un-installing it

[InXess]

from ZoneLabs forum:
http://nh2.nohold.net/noHoldCust25/Prod_1/Articles55646/ManualUninstall.html


forum link:
http://forum.zonelabs.org/zonelabs/board?board.id=inst

to remove/delete files or directories boot into safe mode command prompt and del from DOS, since Windows is not loaded you can do whatever you please

PS. if you have multipartition system and HDD space permits consider multiboot XP installation e.g. XP on 1st and another one on 3rd partition (preferably another HDD) thereby you can use the 2nd to access-manipulate and maintain or repair the main installation. Proves invaluable. The cost - 2 gigs of disk space with benefits far exceeding that.

[Scorpion King]

right now i feel like breaking the computer because i was installing software back bit by bit without any problems so that that I can use true image to back it up whilst its running ok and if if i see the word True Vector again i am gonna scream so im gonna take 30 mins.

I've read all this...ok

IMO you have already messed up. If you were wanting a true image of a computer without any problems then you aren't going to get that now, this install is messed up. I did what you are trying to do with this system about 3 years ago and I haven't regretted it. I first installed XP on a clean - brand new - freshly formatted HDD. The first time I got to the desktop I activated it. I then created an image file of a very simple XP activated install. I then started building the system "bit by bit". At a few points along the way I created another drive image, etc. Now I create a new image whenever I think I have made improvements to what my last image is. And I still have that original activated freshly installed xp image. I know it's a good restore point, If I want to go back that far, and I can reinstall XP without calling for yet another activation. This has worked for me.

Good luck.

also, Adam..... it was just funny. ok.

[Tbag]

right now i feel like breaking the computer because i was installing software back bit by bit without any problems so that that I can use true image to back it up whilst its running ok and if if i see the word True Vector again i am gonna scream so im gonna take 30 mins.

I've read all this...ok

IMO you have already messed up. If you were wanting a true image of a computer without any problems then you aren't going to get that now, this install is messed up. I did what you are trying to do with this system about 3 years ago and I haven't regretted it. I first installed XP on a clean - brand new - freshly formatted HDD. The first time I got to the desktop I activated it. I then created an image file of a very simple XP activated install. I then started building the system "bit by bit". At a few points along the way I created another drive image, etc. Now I create a new image whenever I think I have made improvements to what my last image is. And I still have that original activated freshly installed xp image. I know it's a good restore point, If I want to go back that far, and I can reinstall XP without calling for yet another activation. This has worked for me.

Good luck.

also, Adam..... it was just funny. ok.

thanks, i'll give that a go

[bevills1]

Vijaygunners, have you tried uninstalling it after first shutting it down? Your post seems to indicate you tried uninstalling it and getting message True Vector couldn't be stopped. You probably can't stop True Vector unless you start Zonealarm after reinstall and then shut down Zonealarm to stop True Vector, and finally try uninstall with Zonealarm shot down.

[Tbag]

Vijaygunners, have you tried uninstalling it after first shutting it down? Your post seems to indicate you tried uninstalling it and getting message True Vector couldn't be stopped. You probably can't stop True Vector unless you start Zonealarm after reinstall and then shut down Zonealarm to stop True Vector, and finally try uninstall with Zonealarm shot down.

im confused.
I installed ZA a few weeks ago but a couple of days ago I installed media player 10 then restarted my computer and then that message came up.
I never wanted to get rid of ZA before that message came up so I never tried to uninstall it untill the true vector came to haunt me.

[Scorpion King]

I've ran ZoneAlarm every since they first came out. I heard about the program on The ScreenSavers tv program now years ago. I regularly updated the program up to the version I've stayed with, ZoneAlarm version:5.5.062.011. I've tried some of the newer versions but simply went back to this version because "if it works then why do I need an update".... and it works. All the versions after this one had a splash screen advertising all their crap and the program just didn't feel right, if you know what I mean.

I also run MP v10. I installed it just after Microsoft released it for download. I liked it but now I would say it's a crap player and the newer release of MPClassic is a far better program. No matter if you start WMP or doubleclick on a video/audio file the program tries to get online for some reason. I'd say that is what is wrong with your TrueVector error. I've never had that happen to me, but I would say something with WMP has caused it. Oh yea, have you tired the new WMP upgrades? Don't waste your time.. They are crap also and are even worse than V10...

I would recommend, if you are trying to make a good disk image restore point that is, to just start your XP install all over again and make a few simple disk images of your install as you build it up.... just in case something goes wrong again with these crap programs, you can simply reimage your drive and start over. Once you have created the perfect install it will outlast it's usefullness, just like mine has.

Good luck.