Hi,
Quote:
|
What additional software would you recommend to install for future reference?
|
Take a look in here:
PC Safety and Security--What Do I Need?
Quote:
|
Would this include ordering items online using credit cards? There is no sensitive data on the computer itself.
|
Yes, it would.
Quote:
|
OK, I guess I'll have to do this. One question though - if I transfer all of my files to another computer or hard drive, is there a chance of that computer getting infected, or is this a problem that is solely rooted in the registry of my computer?
|
The problem is not and cannot be limited to the registry.
The following may be of some use in reformatting your harddrive.
1 - Backup Your Data
Copy all your data to a separate drive, CD, DVD, etc.
It may be a good idea to check the files that you backup with an online scanner, you don't want to be reinfected.
http://www.kaspersky.com/virusscanner
2 - Back Up Your Drivers
Particularly important if your computer was not delivered with driver CDs
Driver Genius Pro finds updates and backs up your drivers into an exe installer - very simple to re-install
Or there's the free DriverMax from
http://www.innovative-sol.com
3 - Download Programs, Installers, and Updates
Make sure you have all the programs you will need to re-install such as an Antivirus, a Firewall, and, if not included on the installation disk, Microsoft's Service Pack 3 for Windows XP.
Take note of all the product keys and serial numbers. These may be on boxes, CDs, or in emails.
4 - Make Sure You Can Get Back Online
Check that you have modem drivers, set up instructions, and log-in details.
5 - Boot From The Windows CD and Install.
Physically disconnect your internet cable between the computer and the modem/router
If your computer isn't set to boot from CD, look for the option to enter the BIOS setup during startup - usually Del, F1 or F2
In the BIOS, look for the option to change the order of boot devices
Select the CD drive as the first option
Save and exit
6 - Reload Drivers
Once the Windows installation is complete, re-load the drivers you save in 2 above
7 - Install Security Programs
Install your Antivirus, Firewall, and other security programs
8 - Install Any Microsoft Updates
Reconnect your computer to the internet and go to the Microsoft Updates site:
http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate
Download and install any required updates
9 - Install Any Programs
Finally, install any programs you need to run
Additional info:
http://helpdesk.its.uiowa.edu/window...s/reformat.htm
http://faq.oit.gatech.edu/0305.html