(no subject)

[fpb]

I have a Dell laptop - I don't remember the exact name - with Windows XP Professional, 1G memory, 100G HD and Intel Centrino chip. I have got it second hand, and it has a number of problems that seem to do with memory. It frequently - too frequently - warns that virtual memory is too low; it has a habit of shutting down programs without warning or of stopping them working, apparently because of lack of memory. The keyboard is also far too sensitive, taking a number of unintended and not infrequently damaging commands apparently from the merest touch. Last but not least annoying, it seems to be incapable of contacting any Microsoft site, which means that I do not get updates, cannot download more recent versions of software, nor even register the software I legitimately own. Can anyone help?

Comments

[evil-whimsey.livejournal.com]

Being unable to contact the Microsoft site, or other websites, is sometimes the symptom of a virus or Trojan somewhere in your system. One free antivirus program I've been happy with in the past (and I'm sure your other friends can also suggest good ones), is Avast Antivirus. It doesn't hog system resources so badly as other programs, and once installed it allows you to reboot the machine and perform a virus scan in the boot process, before Windows loads and the viruses become active.

It's hard to say what would cause the keyboard sensitivity; it could be corrupt or incorrect drivers, or even dirt particles caught under the keys or the keyboard assembly, where the electronic contacts are.

It might be worth the time to search around the Dell Support website and look up your model number, to see if there are any known issues with your model, or if others have posted relevant support topics about it.

In the past, I've also learned a lot simply by plugging the model name and a relevant keyword (eg, keyboard problem or low memory) into Google. This can lead you to support forums, where people may be discussing the very problems you're encountering.

Hope any of this helps, and best of luck to you!

[fpb.livejournal.com]

It must be some sort of malware, all right. It is refusing to let me get to the Avast site, same as how it refuses to get to Microsoft.

[evil-whimsey.livejournal.com]

That most definitely sounds like malware. You could try booting your machine into Safe Mode With Networking (to startup in Safe Mode try restarting the computer, and as soon as it begins booting up, repeatedly tap the F8, or F12 key--it's different depending on the manufacturer and Windows version, but here's a link to a guide on the topic--until you see a screen with the Safe Mode options).

Using Safe Mode With Networking, you may be able to access the sites you need. The other option would be downloading the antivirus program installer to another machine and putting it on a memory stick, or burning it to CD, in order to load it on your machine. Though be warned that if you use a USB memory stick or other external storage, the malware may very well load itself on that device as soon as you plug it in to your laptop, so you'll want to make sure and virus scan it before plugging it in to any other machine afterward.

Another option, if you have access to a different computer with a CD burner, and plenty of time on your hands, is to try the Kaspersky Rescue Disc. Technically it's a bit complicated, I had to try it a few times before getting it right, but it was highly effective.

[fpb.livejournal.com]

I tried just for my own satisfaction, and guess what? Kaspersky is not accessible either. I'll try and follow your advice - I have got another set of ideas from another site, so between you and the other guys I should be able to bash the bastard.

In a sense, that is comforting. Having malware is bad, but it's better than the alternative - having bought a computer with flaws and not enough money to have it repaired or buy another.

[inverarity.livejournal.com]

Reformat the hard drive and install Linux. :)

[fpb.livejournal.com]

Linux evangelist, are you?

[inverarity.livejournal.com]

Nah, I actually use Windows on my home computer. But I do use Linux for a lot of my work. And it really is a good choice if you're on a budget.

Even if you don't like Linux, if your laptop seems to be FUBAR with viruses and corrupted registry files, then reformatting the hard drive and reinstalling Windows is probably a good idea.

[fpb.livejournal.com]

I'm not yet at that point. In fact, I have had far worse viruses - the reason why I let it go on so long is that the damage it does is comparatively minor. But I'll bear that in mind.

[becomethesea.livejournal.com]

Hello! First, I want to say that I saw your update post and how I hope that things look up for you after what sounds like a complete disaster.

Next... I am also super into Linux. I've been running Ubuntu since April and it has given me no headaches whatsoever in comparison to the frustration I experienced with Windows. It's a bit overwhelming to learn and entirely new operating system, though, and I'd suggest that if you DO want to consider Linux, have someone familiar with the OS install it for you and get it running.

The Ubuntu forums are also a good help... or a good resource if you decide that you want to switch over.

In any case, if you stick with Windows--more power to you! I agree that it sounds like malware and I hope whatever is wrong can be righted ASAP.

<3 Becomethesea