Computer logs out automatically on startup

Does your computer let you log on then immediately log you off?  If this is happening follow these steps to fix the problem yourself. You most likley picked up Malware or are infected with a virus.

First you will need your XP CD so that you can boot into your recovery console.  To do this put the CD in and start the computer.  You might need to hit f12 to boot from the CD.

On the first screen press R to enter the recovery console.  Type in the built in Administrator password to enter the Console. You’ll see the prompt reading C:\Windows (Or any other drive-letter where you’ve installed XP)

Type d: (d: or whatever letter represents your cd drive)

C:\Windows>CD D:

D:\>CD I386

D:\I386>COPY USERINIT.EX_ C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32

(you should see 1 files copied successfully)

Type CD C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32

C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32>RENAME USERINIT.EX_ USERINIT.EXE

C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32>COPY USERINIT.EXE WSAUPDATER.EXE

Type Exit to exit the recovery console and reboot.  You should now be able to log back in.  If that worked run regedit from the Run command.

Navigate to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\

In the right pane, you should see

C:\WINDOWS\System32\wsaupdater.exe,

Change it so that it reads:  C:\WINDOWS\System32\userinit.exe (it might already read userinit.exe)

Once verified download Malwarebytes Anti Malware and Perform full scan.

Download and run CCleaner. 

Scan with your antivirus software.  If you need antivirus software check out under my Free Utility Downloads.  Hope this was helpful.

Malware vs. Virus

I was recently asked the difference between Malware and Virus.  This is something people need to know about if they want to keep their computers clean and running in optimal condition.

By definition malware is software developed for the purpose of causing harm to a computer system.

A virus is a program that can copy itself or infect a computer without the consent or permission of the owner.  Also written to cause harm.

The difference - a virus has the ability to reproduce itself.  To be defined as a virus it has to be capable of spreading itself from one computer to another.

To keep your computer clean you should scan for both.  Other threats include adware and spyware.  Free scanning programs and cleaners can be found here under Free Utility Downloads.

Can a Mac get viruses?

In my post “Free virus protection” I was asked a great question. Do Macs get viruses?

I found a great answer to this question from computerhope.com.

Basically, it is possible but unlikely. A virus hitting a Mac has a low probability for a few reasons. One because a Mac operates on a Unix platform. In laymen’s terms most virus files are written for Windows or Dos systems and those same files wont work in the Mac OS (operating system).
And, Windows has many more users.

It is important to understand that the creator of the virus want’s recognition. If he writes a virus with this in mind he or she want’s the largest impact around the world. Because 98% of the world operates on Windows by default Windows is the target. Sad but true!

Are you infected with Conficker

It’s time to protect yourself from the newest threat on the internet. The Conficker virus!! Take these simple steps to protect yourself and your information.

Update your virus pattern. Scan your computer.
Make sure you’re behind a firewall.
Run CCleaner and clean your registry.
Run Malwaremalbytes and look for spyware and malware.

Any questions will be answered. Don’t hesitate, Ask Kyle!