Posted: 12/29/2012 3:59:39 AM EDT
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I'm trying to fix a friend's computer. she thinks she got a virus. I tried loading Windows XP on it but it wouldn't take. It'll boot from the CD but then displays errors.
Would a virus be so hard-coded that it would prevent a new installation? Can a virus actually damage the boot sector? Or maybe it is just a hard disk crash? |
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You can download tools that you can boot up into to check. You can use Sea Tools for Dos to check the hard drive. Link
Try Avira AntiVir Rescue System to scan for a virus Link Download them from a different computer and burn them to disk, then boot the dead computer with them. I would prob run Sea Tools first. |
| In researching Sea Tools for dos it states you can only test Seagate or Maxtor drives, but Sea Tools for windows you can test any manufactures drive. Another option would be to remove the drive and install it in another computer, then download Sea Tools for windows and run the test. I believe the windows boot cd will also allow you to perform a memory test, if not you should be able to find a free version. |
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Quoted: I'm trying to fix a friend's computer. she thinks she got a virus. I tried loading Windows XP on it but it wouldn't take. It'll boot from the CD but then displays errors. Would a virus be so hard-coded that it would prevent a new installation? Can a virus actually damage the boot sector? Or maybe it is just a hard disk crash? XP era computer, and the drive requirements are going to be low. Save a crapload of time and rule out both virus and drive by getting a cheap small drive. On both of your questions, it could be "yes". Why does she think she got a virus? What, specifically did she notice? Adding: If you are so inclined, get Hirem's boot CD with about 1000 tools on it to diagnose, test, and fix stuff. There's a drive tester on there. |