windows xp help

bobbyvan wrote:
> I get an error on startup
> windows cannot find "c:\windows\system32\-.exe
> can anyone help

There are no Google results for "-.exe" which is a strong indication of
malware. Your antivirus/antispyware programs could have removed the
malware and left a reference to it in Startup OR if you didn't do any
malware removal you need to.

Make sure the computer is clean:

http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/page2.html#Removing_Malware

Include scanning with David Lipman's Multi_AV and follow instructions to
do all scans in Safe Mode.

If the machine is clean, manage your Startup:

Start>Run>msconfig [enter]

This brings up the System Configuration Utility. Look on the Startup tab
and find the probable culprit. Uncheck the box next to its name, Apply
and OK out. You don't need to restart immediately, but the next time you
do you'll get a dialog saying you've used the Utility. Just tick the box
that says in effect, "don't bother me about this again".

Important - Do not use the System Configuration Utility to stop
processes. Instead, use Start>Run>services.msc [enter] and do not stop
any services unless you really, really know what you're doing.

How to Troubleshoot By Using the Msconfig Utility in Windows XP -
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=310560


Malke
--
Elephant Boy Computers
www.elephantboycomputers.com
"Don't Panic!"
MS-MVP