Desktop computer compromised, running slow, not updating. Please can you help?

redmandarin

Thanks a lot everyone, that's brilliant!

We've got guests at the moment, so I'll get on with it tomorrow and report back.

redmandarin

Hi Folks,

Things seemed better today, as when I switched off windows updates the machine ran more quickly than before, which is good.

I then tried to run the Dell Diagnostics tool which was fine until I got to step 2, updating Dell System Detect. I downloaded and saved the file, the dialogue box said scanning for viruses, and I clicked open and run. But then a box appeared stating: Application cannot be started, contact vendor.

I clicked on Details and was presented with a notepad document - Platform Version Info, which I've saved to desktop.

Do you want me to post it?

NiftyDigits

No need.

Replace the CMOS battery and upgrade the RAM modules. £8 should cover both.

elektra

redmandarin wrote: »

Hi Folks,

Things seemed better today, as when I switched off windows updates the machine ran more quickly than before, which is good.

Now that you have switched updates off , follow this post
http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showpost.php?p=64140788&postcount=2

which was advised by 'somesethillbilly' in post 22 of this thread. It worked for me on an XP desktop with similar problem to yours.

Once that update has applied, then you can switch updates back on, let them apply and then do a full backup.

Then you can work on getting other software up to date e.g Avast, Firefox, Flash etc

redmandarin

elektra wrote: »

Now that you have switched updates off , follow this post
http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showpost.php?p=64140788&postcount=2

Once that update has applied, then you can switch updates back on, let them apply and then do a full backup.

Then you can work on getting other software up to date e.g Avast, Firefox, Flash etc

Thanks both,

I notice this is a cumulative update for Windows 8. I have 7 installed. I assume I have to update to 8 first? Or will it be included as a part of this one?

somersethillbilly

You are correct.

Update to IE8
http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/internet-explorer-8-details.aspx?nosuggest=1

Then install the cumulative update
http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=41404

Updates should be fine from then on, it's a known problem.

redmandarin

Hi, sorry for not posting earlier, our house guests stayed longer than expected, and now our boiler's on the blink - no hot water or heating!

Just to let you know that I managed to install Windows 8 and the cumulative updates and the machine is running more quickly (not quick though!) and I've unpacked the hard drive, so I'll get on with backing up it asap.

Its a Packard Bell Store & Save 3500. Unfortunately there are no instructions with it. Will it let me back up everything at once - such as Microsoft files & photos (on Picasa) rather than bits at a time? Please can anyone help with how to do this? Thank you.

somersethillbilly

Good to hear. If you have n't done so already, turn automatic updates back on. Yesterday was "Patch Tuesday" so you will have more updates waiting, but they should run smoothly and quickly now

Macrium Reflect FREE Edition is a popular choice for backing up, disk imaging. Scroll down in closed's guide for a video tutorial.

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/2436849

closed

where did windows 8 suddenly appear from, IE8?

hijackthis log

somersethillbilly

I think (hope) that the OP means IE8