[Cerek]

Heya Arnabas. I had some major trouble with my primary PC this past year when I took it to a local PC shop to have the HD upgraded. I've also had LOTS of problems with spyware in the past.

Here is my recommendation for your current problems.

The company that sold you the computer IS obligated to provide the XP Installation disks with the computer when they sell it to you. If you ever have a problem that require Windows to be deleted and re-installed, you will need the ID code from the installation CD's.

To completely delete specific viruses or spyware from your PC, simply do a Google Search for the software in question. If you know what the software is called, just do a Google for "Remove Spyware XXX" and you will get a site providing specific instructions for removing that particular software. You can also list the software here. Many members (especially Larry the Mod) are very experienced at removing rogue software.

Since you have nothing of real value on your old machine, my recommendation would be to get the XP installation disks. If they aren't included in the stuff you received with your computer, then go back to the place where you bought it and tell them you need a copy of the installation disks. Once you have that, I would simply take your OLD PC into a reputable computer repair shop. Tell them to WIPE IT CLEAN. Get rid of EVERYTHING. Then just do a fresh install of Windows XP with the disks provided to you by the people who sold you the new one.

You're looking at about two hours (max) labor charge from the repair shop, which would be around $100-120. That may sound like a lot, but you will KNOW that the virus/spyware is definitely gone and that your old machine is now "up to specs" with your new machine.

For us computer illiterates, that's a pretty good bargain.

I kept trying to get my PC problem fixed with "hit and miss" troubleshooting. I finally said "Screw it. Erase EVERYTHING and re-install ONLY Windows." I also went back to the place that "upgraded" my PC and made them replace the motherboard and HD they had purchased and installed. Since both were less than a year old, they were still under warranty and the shop replaced them at no charge. My problem turned out to be a bad sector on the NEW HD. It took several months and quite a bit MORE than $120 to finally get that fixed. That's why I say to just take it to someone who works on computers profesionally and have them do a complete wipe-out and re-install XP.