I have pop-ups/ my computers really slow/ DLL errors...why?

[g_shocker182]

**This is a mini-guide. This should answer some questions of inexperienced computer users.**
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I have too many damn pop-ups/ my computers really slow/ DLL errors....why?

Possible reason include but are not limited to the following:
1.) KaZaa
Kazaa represents the motherload of spyware. Why? Because ten millions of people download this Napster-like program that automatically installs spyware on your computer. This Cy-Door(spyware) stuff is necessary to run KaZaa, thus no one is willing to get rid of it.

2.) Porno
Guys know about this one. Ever tried to download a {cough} MPEG, and it turned out to be an EXE? These EXE files claim they are justing dialing into porno galleries but are in fact charging your phone line and you may see it on your next phone bill. You might also find weird "gambling" software on your computer as well.

3.) Illegal Sites
Many a warez site will pop-up something that will ask you to download an exe onto your computer after selecting "Yes" thus "trusting" XYZ's software. These programs can either be trojans, viruses, or spyware. Always click no. The only time I've ever clicked yes was when I was on Microsofts webpage.
Example:

4.) Suspicious Software
Ever seen a program that has maybe just one use to you? Well guess what, it might have more uses with pop-ups. Never trust these pieces of junk. Try to looking at more reliable and popular software.

5.) Normal Software
Never download software that is "supported" by adware/ spyware. Period. You will never see the end of it. Case in point: some versions of the DivX codec.

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Solutions

Ad-Aware
-This is my favorite, probably because of its ease of use. Remove all cases of spyware and other harmful objects on your HD.
Link: AdAware

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Feel free to add more things that I may have missed.

[mujahid7ia]

SpyBot Search and Destroy - I use it and Ad-Aware in conjunction because they catch things that the other missed.

[hech54]

Also CWShredder

[maestro5050]

Don't forget that you can edit the MSCONFIG file to get rid of software that is loading in the background. This helps a ton in Win 98/ME and doesn't hurt to use in Win XP. Win 2K does not have this file, but you can import a copy of the MSCONFIG.EXE file into the WINNT\system32 folder and use it just like other Microsoft operating systems.

[gmatov]

Maestro,

Are you saying I can import mscinfig from 98SE to W2k, and it will work?

Or do I have to get it from XP?

Cheers,

George

[maestro5050]

You can find it here:

http://www2.whidbey.com/djdenham/Msconfig.htm

[gmatov]

Maestro,

Thanks. I dl'd the W2k file, but the help file comes down as alpha-numerics. What do I do with that? Do I need the help file?

I rarely use them. Usually just blunder on through.

Cheers,

George

[maestro5050]

No real need for the help file. Just need the main exe file to get it to work.