Downloads
Savemybutt Recommended Utilities
- Savemybutt Weekly Utilities Instructions Version 3 (Step-By-Step) (PDF File)
(Right-Click and choose “Save As” or “Save Link As“) - Malwarebyte Spyware/Adware remover
- Spybot Search And Destroy 1.62
- Spyware Blaster 4.3
- Ccleaner
- Advanced Windows Care v2
- Free Registry Repair
- Revo Uninstaller
- Microsoft Security Essentials
- Free Version of Avast Anti-Virus
Other Misc Tools and Tips
- How to remove Antivirus 2008/2009 Malware (Follow the instructions on this site)
- Link To McAfee Stinger
- Foxit Reader (Adobe Reader Replacement)
- CW Shredder
- Hijackthis (NOT FOR THE NOVICE)
- Hijackthis – How to post a log
- Belarc Advisor
- Winsockfix
- Setting up DSL Connection.
- Windows 7 Easy Transfer Wizard
Removal Tools
195 Responses to Downloads
Leave a Reply
I purchase savemybutt computer boot camp for $2.99, on 12-19-2011, paid for it, used it one time and have not been able to get back on it again. I can’t find it on you website to use it so tell me please where do I go?? Or should I just kiss my $2.99 goodby. Please advise, Thanks, Joe
AVAST PROBLEM:
My computer was slowing down – I did everything in the book to get it back to normal – almost thru it into Lake Michigan – then I found that AVAST was using 95 to 100% of my CPU and I could not figure out how to correct this – Under the Task Manager, I could not delete the process and there was no delete process under AVAST – trying to find a help, I went to this Download page and there it was, “Avast Removal Tool” well it took over 4 hours but it got rid of Avast and my computer was like new again. As a gamble, I downloaded Avast and installed it…..It is behaving as it should, using only 5 to 15% of the CPU.
Thank you for this tool.
great post I’m a massive man utd supporter from Vegas USA
Thanks Johnny for the info. But this is bizzare, I shut the system down until I found a solution but last week there was a power outage for a few seconds and it powered me back up. And supprising I was able to get into all files and was able to get rid of it using Mikes weekly clean up utilities.
@GEORGE K. I’m not sure Mike answers people on this page but I got rid of similar things off my relatives computer from the instructions on bleepingcomputer.com. There is a page on that website with all these FAKE AV scams listed and ways to get them off the computer. Mike does have Malwarebytes free* up there in his download links, THAT is one of your answers. But bleepingcomputer.com was very helpful in these darn things. Good luck. I got so sick of those things, I use Linux most the time now.
I told my son your web site was reliable and to download avast for his anti virus, but its only good for 30 days? Are there any free antivirus software? we use Comcast and i assumed any computer we use in our house was protected with Norton from Comcast. Is this a wrong assumption? rick
Woah this weblog is magnificent i love reading your posts. Stay up the great work! You already know, many individuals are searching round for this information, you could aid them greatly.
any way to ermove the security shield faux virus?
Thank you, I’ve recently been looking for info about this topic for ages and yours is the greatest I’ve discovered so far. But, what about the bottom line? Are you positive in regards to the source?
Someone necessarily lend a hand to make seriously posts I might state. This is the first time I frequented your web page and up to now? I surprised with the research you made to make this actual put up amazing. Excellent job!
How do I sign on as Boot Camp Member?
Starr
Hey Bobster. I listen to their show every week. I have heard them Mention VLC Media Player. I use it on my Linux side of the Computer too. It’s available Free at filehippo dot com. You’re not alone in disliking Real player.
I’ve heard someone on Website Wednesday Night recommend a media player but I cannot recall the name of it. I like WMP and have used RealPlayer which I do not like as much. I also started using Amazon Cloud Player – but not sure how I like that.
I want to get all my music and videos in one place any suggestions?
I’m trying to download Revo Uninstaller, but all I’m getting is a prompt to start downloading it (step 1 of 4) and then a window from cnet-Download.com marked Revo Uninstaller Pro. It just sits there with no indication of any downloading. What can I do?
I’m installing the Free Windows Registry Repair software and it’s asking me to select the Program Manager group to add the icons to. It then lists all my software. I have no idea what to select. Where does this go?
Also, I don’t know why so many people have said they have problems with your links. I’ve just gone through all but the Avast Anti-Virus links and all work fine!
To the guy complaining about links not working…. well all seem to be working fine for me!! But maybe you could have worded your complaint a little nicer -instead of so cocky. If you notice they are LINKS, and they link to other places. For all you know the place where the link was pointing to could have a temporary issue preventing you from getting there!
Mike D has a pretty good website going here. I feel your complaint is rude and unwarranted. Take a chill-pill dude !!
Why would I have Mike D. fix my computer when half the links on his site do not work and half the software is outdated?
Avast Removal Tool no longer available?
I right mose button on these downloads, hit save target as, and do not get program, but instead get html….why?
Click on Avast or McAfee removal tool and you get a page listing News links?
My Mcafee expires on the 30th, but would like make sure all is removed, before switching to Avast.
When I click on the download link from your download link it just shows a number of blog postings How do I get the correct version of this software?
•Advanced Windows Care v2
When I click on the download link from your download link it just shows a number of blog postings How do I get the correct version of this software?
SAME AS above also can’t delete my email or open it
I just got my first laptop and first time using Windows 7. When using save my butt utilities it wont go to spybot search and destroy and windows care. Are therse not necessary for Windows 7?
Can you tell me why when I run the full scan and then errors appear and I click on fix errors-it clears all the errors, I then run it again and it shows more errors. I have run the full scan 3 times tonight and each time it finds more errors, 87,190,199. thanks, Marge
I have Uninstaller, but not Revo Uninstaller. Where or How do you obtain the Revo?
http://savemybutt.com/downloads/file-downloads/AWCSetup.exe is not working.
I’m impressed, I must say. Really rarely do I encounter a blog themewith blogtitle like that – Downloads » Savemybutt.com. It is realy both – educative and entertaining. Let me tell you, you have hit the nail on the head and you are realy very close to the topic!The issue is something that not enough people are speaking intelligently about. I am very happy that I stumbled across this information in my search!.Thanks, and keep up great work!
How do I get rid of a Trojan Horse virus that has infected my uncle’s computer? I don’t think he currently has a Virus Protection Suite protection his computer. His computer works accept for the internet which is taken over by malware. Can I seek and destroy this virus? Will the downloads above take care of it?
Go to download.com. You’ll find AVG & lots more there–FREE
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For the Savemybutt Utilities Instructions (version 3), remove downloads/ from the URL, that will get you where you want to be. http://savemybutt.com/file-downloads/Savemybutt-Utilites-Instructions-V3.pdf
Have been working with Robby from Hallmark for about 6 weeks now. After 2 1/2 years of running Hallmak Deluxe 2006 the Event Planner and part of the card program has quit. He says it was not supposed to work with Vista to start with!! Nothing he suggests works. Now he thinks it is a component in the Avast 6.0.1115 virus protection program that I am running. Seems to me it started right after Windows did an update, but he says if that were the case I wouldn’t be the only one with the problem….hey, I think it could be visa-versa too. What do you think? I was going to come on here and d/l AVG and uninstall Avast to see if that would work but you don’t list AVG as a free download.
Cannot open the Weekly Utilities Instructions pdf.
if anyone want instruction step by step just e mail with ” help me ” . No i dont know Mike D but he help me , now i can help him . My junk email bt9729017@gmail.com.
I looked up your site ,you had said on Wgn to print out the first item (•Savemybutt Weekly Utilities Instructions Version 3 (Step-By-Step)) on the list that explains how to do the weekly checkup,but i’m getting your home page under that first item.
Unable to download-Utilites instructions-V3, PDF from savemybutt.com
Unable to open this internet site. The requested site is either unavailable or cannot be found. Please try later.
Red X warning box
Adobe reader X will not open your weekly “utilities instructions.pdf” file. I get a “not a supported file type” error. Any ideas why?
My printer only prints from computer – I can’t copy anything. My printer had jammed and I was told to pull out torn paper. Could my rolls in printer be damaged. All comments would be appreciated.
Referring to my posting on the Revo Uninstaller program I’ve checked out the Weekly Utilities Instructions at the top of the page. It gives step by steps on how to clean out old files left behind by the former program on your hard drive that was uninstalled. It pays to read the instructions, doesn’t it?
Is anyone else having trouble downloading Spybot Surch and Destroy?
Referring to Revo Uninstaller, it looks like an awesome program but I’m wondering if it’s really safe to delete all those registry files after you uninstall an application. For those of you who’ve used Revo, I’d like to hear from you. The application I’m trying to uninstall is Windows Live Essentials. Long story why. You’re welcome to ask here, or EMAIL me at n9vu at hotmail dot com. Thanks, GB
My email address was incorrect on the previous post. Should be:
guvnobob@att.net
Because of Website Wed . , my Dell XPS M1530 runs really GREAT ! (Windows 7 Ultimate ) . I changed over to Microsoft Security Essentials with my clean install !
OMG ! WHAT A DIFFERENCE ! This puppy SCREAMS !
Now if I can only find a cheap or free video editing/animation program for my teenage daughter ! Windows program can’t do the job ; and she liked Sony Vegas 7 , but after
the free trial , it’s awfully expensive ! Any Ideas ? Thanks !
“Chet the Trucker”
P S – Malwarebytes is GREAT ! !
My old workhorse computer around here is a Hewlett Packard Pavillion Desktop, Model #A500n, from 2004 with all the service packs intalled and updated, runningWindows XP Home Edition.
For the past six months, I have been having a problem with Internet Explorer 8. Cold start, restart, sometimes going from one window to another, or opening a URL link in an emal, I get two black bars covering the file, edit, riew, etc. line and the line beneath it. I can’t figure out what is causing the black bars or how to get rid of them, short of doing a complete system restore, which seems to be the only thing that works.
Any one know of a fix?
I have ben having with Avest and came back to remove it and restore it. MY computer is losing with the icons and ataching with outhers and can’t it.
how to you back up files on computer – pc , windows xp. i have went to a number of websites and i am con fused. thanks
GARY. Good Question. When I hit Control/ALT/Delete on my XP I have 46 running. I can kill off a few with no trouble like Secunia or Open DNS updater cause those can be used WHEN I really need them, I don’t need em running in the background. I suppose More RAM always helps. I added 2 gig to my XP and the Programs seem to LEAP on the screen now. But here is an excerpt from what I found on line.. >>>>
Q. How many processes should Windows XP be running at once on my computer? When I go to the Task Manager and look at the processes, there are 50 listed. Is this normal? Could this be slowing down my computer? How can I find out what each process does?
A. On a brand new XP operating system with no optional software installed, there are approximately 18 processes. Every PC will be different depending upon what hardware it contains.
Once you start adding software such as antivirus and other drivers, the numbers start going up. The real answer is, there is no real answer.
XP does not hide as much of the operating system as previous versions of Windows did. There is more you need to know about what is running on your PC.
Are 50 processes too many? Maybe, but they all may be legitimate processes. You will see svchost many times. This is a Windows system process that many programs use to interact with the operating system. >>>> I guess the answer is whatever it takes to make the computer run faster? and what you can do without. I’d be interested what Mike thinks too.
Hi
I’m running Windows XP and Internet Explorer 8. I seem to have a lot of processes running on my machine and I’m not sure how many is too many. How many is too many? Anybody?
Gary
To DANIELLE…. Go to Bleepingcomputer dot com and look for the removal instructions there. There are many listed on the right side of the “spy-ware” removal page. I used NOD32 ESET on line scanner to remove one LIKE yours on my brother’s computer. I used Malwarebytes, which can be downloaded on Mike’s site above. I ran both Malwarebytes and NOD32 on line virus scanner in SAFE MODE with Networking. I would also make sure to turn OFF system restore to delete all prior saved restore points before scanning, this is where those infections keep returning from. Once you know your clean, then turn it back on. Things that kept me clean for several years are a Custom Hosts file from Mvps.org, Malwarebytes, Nod32 Anti-virus. good luck. ;0)
I did not get the address for https last wed night
Thanks Jim
HELP!!
I have been trying to remove “Security Shield” for 2 days now. I’ve tried system restore – but this “security shield” will shut it down before it has a chance to start! I have tried running 3 other programs to get rid of this but they all get shut down as soon as I open them!!
HOW DO I GET RID OF THIS??????
Hi Mike:
I have a Windows 7 64-bit HP computer. Are all the maintenance programs ok for that OS? I did install Avast and the computer came with Window Defender which is running. But do I need all the other softwares and their real time protection? Do I need Microsoft Security Essentials? I just don’t want to bog down my system and have all these programs running.
Thanks!
I have lost the sound to my computer. I believe I have deleted all systems on my computer. I tried to get rid of some viruses by changing some software. anyway, I do not have windows 7, Acrobat Adobe, and a lot more. I have a Dell Inspiron 1420 laptop. What do I need to do to get my laptop back to working like it use to work?
please tell me what antiviral program u recommend now my husb says it is AVG but when i tried to load the free plan (not the trial version) it leads me to the “buy” version. help!!!!
Mike I understand you are busy and not get to answer this.I was unavailable to e mail or call in during web site Wednesday last week.I have a dell inspiron 530s desktop with windows vista.I installed microsoft security essentials last month.I recently noticed I can not open start up or current running programs.it just say windows defender is turned off.of course with security essentials it is automatically turned off. is this normal and can I fet around this? Thank you.
Mike I understand you are busy and not get to answer this.I was unavailable to e mail or call in during web site wednesday last week.I have a dell inspiron 530s desktop with windows vista.
Forgot to mention do a defrag afterwards
1.To remove nortons go to their website and download removal tool.
2.to prevent Email Problems from sending-Change Email password.
3.For computer problems (FREE) Try Microsoft Fixit Webpage.
Use Glary Utilities in automatic mode, then use CCleaner. Don’t change any setting.
Run Free registry cleaner-Auslogics, finnally do a Virus scan. Hope this helps
Please remind me why I shouldn’t upgrade Advanced Windows Care V2. I keep getting notices to do the upgrade. Thank you, and thanks for your appearances on the Steve & Johnnie show.
Tomm
The newest update from Avast! has a lot of people’s computers crashing, mine being one of them. On their website it seems they’re trying to put the fault on everything but the update, but I think it’s weird that a bunch of people have had the same problem with the same update.
I cannot connect to mozilla firefox. On the screen ,it said firefoxant establish a conn. to the server at enos.start 3 mozilla.com. check computers conn, Ron Feltz
Hey Mike,
My daughter came home and told me she needs Microsoft Publisher at home. We have Office 2007 installed in our laptops and not much money for an expensive copy. What is your suggestion? Start saving?
Thanks Mike
@walter – These are the steps I have used in the past to remove Trojan.Gen.2 using Norton Anti-Virus. I got them from the Norton website. They work 90% of the time.
Removal Instructions
The following instructions pertain to all current and recent Symantec antivirus products, including the Symantec AntiVirus and Norton AntiVirus product lines.
1. Disable System Restore (Windows Me/XP).
2. Update the virus definitions.
3. Run a full system scan and delete all the files detected.
Here’s Norton’s page concerning Trojan.Gen.2:
http://securityresponse.symantec.com/security_response/detected_writeup.jsp?name=Trojan.Gen.2
Good luck to you, sir.
Karl A. Krogmann
I have and XP operating system on a HP 6000dv laptop I have recently acquired the
friendly Trojan .Gen.2 and my norton is not able to fix it, what do you suggest. I listen to you on WGN.
ps. Your contribution and participation in the show is priceless and fantastic.
To Gloria Brummund: AVG and Avast are free. Norton Security Suite is free if you have Comcast cable Internet. I like it best, including McAfee and panda.
I’ve been using AVG free for several years. With no apparent problems. While reading this site over I see nothing about AVG on here. Short and Sweet, Why or why not? I just recently started listening to you on WGN on my way home from work on Wed. nights and am very impressed with what you have to offer and the help you give on the radio. Should I uninstall AVG and install Avast? I am using windows XP on the PC and Vista on one of my laptops. Should I or can I use all these programs listed above on both versions of windows? Thanks for your time.
Happy New Year Mike,
Just wondering if you have heard/experienced windows 7 (32bit) dumping the printer spooler. Happened to me today and can’t find microsoft support.
Thanks. D
@kenton herman – I have always used DSLReports, http://www.dslreports.com/speedtest?flash=1, for speed testing. It’s been around for years, is reliable, and allows you to check your connection speed against that of your neighbors. You can save and review you speed tests and schedule automated tests. Highly reccomended.
Karl A. Krogmann
happy new year mike. you mentioned last week on the radio that you would post a patch for the itunes problem,or atleast how to find it. computer is slowly dieing, seems like it started after itunes was installed. take care you have a great show on the radio.
I have an old IMac 10.28, which is slow. My computer knowledge is nill. Do you know if I should defrag and how to do it. Also, I need some free updated virus protection. I use Foxfire with yahoo and hotmail email addresses. I notice strange emails in foreign languages on hotmail – I jst delete them. But on yahoo, I frequently get a dropdown box that says the computer doesn’t recognize the certificate, do I want to examine it or let it be used one time. I usually just turn back and sign in over again.
Mike,
I have dowloaded and run everything (Malware; Ad-Aware; Microsoft Utilities; Avast; McAfee; Spybot) and I still have a virus that hijacks my internet searched and redirects to another web page. Additionally it has now sent an email from my email address to people in my address book.
What am I doing wrong?
thanks!
Hi Mark,
I hate to say this, but this is not a tech support forum. The comments here should be directed at comments for the downloads because that is the page you are on. If you have a technical question, please use the Contact link at the top of the page.
Thanks,
Mike
For Windows XP I recommend Avast.
Mike
This has nothing to do with Facebook ad servers. This is about the transfer of personal data from hundreds of third party websites that partner with Facebook. Like AOL. If you use your Facebook login on aol.com, some of your personal Facebook information is passed to AOL. This plug in stops that.
Mike
Hi Mike. I was wondering about the “Facebook disconnect” extension. How is this any better or different from blocking Facebook’s ad servers on your computer at the Host file level? I use Hostsman and Mvps’s custom list and get to see all the addresses and ways to block Facebook. Thanks if you answer and have a great Christmas.
Windows XP Anti-Virus…
Which is better….
Avast or Microsoft Security Essentials?
my dell vostro 1400 laptop’s control pad and mouse have begun to be flaky. 50 % of the time they do not work. You hit on my user name after i boot the system and nothing happens. Then I plug in mouse and hit enter 20 times and i get in. After that it will work for awhile and hang up again. Any ideas. I reloaded drivers and same problem. May be a Windows problem – any ideas – thanks so much–
whats a good broadband tester site?
thank you
kenton
Go to the Downloads page on my site and download the Norton Removal Tool. Run it then reboot your computer. Now you should be able to install either Avast or Microsoft Security Essentials, depending on which operating system you have.
No matter what I do i can’t uninstall my norton antivirus, why is that…..
Please help, desperate to delete my Norton Anti virus, my new anti virus wont download until Norton has been uninstalled….
Hi Mike, I just installed Firefox as my browser, should I remove explorer to avoid any conflicts, and what about my windows live email? Will it still work?
How can I get rid of the google redirect virus? Every time I try to click on a site off a google search I’m redirected to another site and I can’t go back.
Revo won’t install correctly error. Can I use normal Add/Remove program to uninstall Revo?
need windows 7 home 64 bit product key…please help…or a beta download..Right now I have to reinstall my windows 7 every 30 days. Gettin old.
Hi Mike and all. First off, Happy Thanksgiving. I’m a regular WWNight listener on WGN. I have noticed something in my router activity list or syslog. Something called
>>>Enter act_fun_netmeeting
(GMT-06:00)16:48:15 Wed Nov 24 2010 — MARK<< THIS seems to always be there whenever I go into my router and look in the utilities section. Does anyone know what this is? I do have Magic Jacks phone usb, but it shows up when not plugged in, is it related to that maybe? Just wondering. :0)
please let me know what anti virus i can download for free
can not afford mcafree any more
Hi, I cannot open to any sites unless I leave my Pc sit for a while when I first turn it on. Also cannot close sites out because it freezes. Also freezes when I try to go to another site sometimes. Judy
TO: Bobby R in Jefferson Park-
AZre you still having this problem? What operating system are you using? Are you the administrator?
I’ve seen this problem before.
Karl A. Krogmann
free registry repair is corrupt and unreadable
says my computer
Hi Mike, Here is my problem, My son gave me a dvd of my late son that was
burned from a vhs video. The problem is we can’t play it on any dvd player
and I can’t open it via the computer, The file is marked .vcr and the computer does not recognize this type file. I followed the comps. suggestion to find something on the web to fix this, but all the fix does is clean the registries and for a price. Any ideas from you would help and by the way, I really enjoy your show with Steve and Johnny, Thanks, ED
can’t establish ssL onnection (16291.331.1066.502) PLEASE HELP ME WGN FAN
After downloading Advanced windows care and having to restart my computer there is a system scan during the startup before it finishes. Is this normal?
On September 9 I purchased your computer wellness class. When directed to go back to website after purchase I did not because it was just for more shopping on your site. I now know that I was supposed to go back and set up usename and password there which I didn’t do. I have been unable to access the class and have emailed you twice about this. All I’ve received is an automated response with no further follow up. I’ve thrown away the $$$ this class costs and really feel ripped off!
Hello mike, i have a question for ya. today i tried to download itunes and quicktime, the itunes format downloaded fine, but had lottle luck with the quicktime. for some reason it wont allow a download or update. it keeps rolling back. and the only way to use itunes is with quicktime. please help me if you can, or anyone else, i know your very busy mike. thanks in advance, bobby jefferson park
Help! I am unemployed and I need my computer to look for work and to certify for my unemployment. I have a Dell, WindowXP came loaded on my computer and I have added Windows 2007. My computer is sooo slow and I can only do a few things in the internet before it freezes up. From every thing I read and people tell me it sounds like I picked up a virus. Also my hotmail account has been sending out emails, but itself. I understand that someone else has gotten my hotmail account and is useing it to send these emails. How do I get it to stop? and is there a way to get rid of the virus that will not cost me a fortune? My unemployment is less then half what I was making. Thanks, Karen
Is there a free zip utility that you recommend?
Might I suggest that you post your responses to the questions you post. I would be interested in some of your responses.
Thanks for a great website and all your helpful advise!
Which is better? Avast or Microsoft Security Essentials? I keep hearing Avast is no longer recommended.. Why?
just great,thanks for computer help.
Hi Mike, listen to you on wgn every chance I get. great show and informative.
I only have 1 problem. I can’t download pictures from my motorola v3 razr phone. I need to get the drivers for it, but is it ok to download from internet or seek a different way. I don’t have a cd for it and I was advised not to download because of viruses with these type of downloads, Thanks, Ed
Ok i installed the REVO uninstaller -uninstalled my version of spybot which really never allowed me to update it. i tried to reinstall it but when I get the update parts it tells me ERROR CODE USER 5 unable to install definitions. and the operation aborted. I am never given the option or can’t right click to become an adminstrator. now at this point when i click on search and destroy the error message: You need to install the detection definitions first”
help.
To DAVID SANCHEZ:
I have been using the instructions located here to remove most forms of fake Anti Virus software:
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/virus-removal/remove-security-master-av
I’ve used this method, or a variation of it, for the past six months or so, and have been successful every time. It takes a little patience, but doesn’t everything worthwhile?
To Mike D:
I like the new site design.
Karl A. Krogmann
Aging Uber Geek
For Anthony T:
480 MB of RAM is not that much. It’s usable, but 1 GB or better is recommended for anything from Windows XP and up. Remove as many startup programs as possible (Use SysInternal’s AutoRuns utility to do this.) Clean out the Windows Registry. Use Control Panel -> Add / Remove programs to remove unnecessary software.
The best bet, however, is this: Use the OEM system restore disks to return the machine to its original factory image, remove all crap software (like Norton, AOL installs, “free” software, like Microsoft Office Trial versions.) Then hook the thing up to the internet and install the latest Avast! Free edition, run all applicable Windows updates and patches, install Flash, Java runtime, Firefox and Google Chrome, and have a great day. Oh… and double the RAM to 1 GB.
If you’re using the machine for the internet only, try installing Ubuntu Linux. It’s fast, it’s free, it’s secure, and it’s not Microsoft. I’ve been using Linux in one form or another for more than ten years and love it. I’m viewing this page and writing this response on a nine year old Compaq 733 Mhz mini tower with 512 MB RAM and have no speed or performance issues whatsoever. It runs Ubuntu 8.04 Desktop.
Karl A. Krogmann
Aging Uber Geek
I have a Compaq HP with Windows XP with 480 Mb of ram.(that does seem like a lot) I am in the process of working though the savemybutt weekly utilities but wonder if there is anything else I can do to improve performance. I just want my programs to load fast to eel like if I need need to send quick email or do anything quickly on my computer I should be able to.
Please note my family uses this machine for surfing the web, iTunes and some game playing. The games that are played are typically older games and are rentals or from the library so they are installed and uninstalled as needed.
Thank you to anyone that can help.
And an even bigger thank you to Mike. savemybutt.com rocks!
HOW DO U BLOCK UNWANTED E MAILS IM GETTING 10 A DAY
I currently use spybot search & destroy but cannot get rid of Security Master AV. Do you have a solution?
Hi-I downloaded Microsoft Security Esssentials as recommended but have a few questions about it. Which scan should be done-full or quick? If I don’t have my computer on all the time am I able to do a scheduled scan or not? If not do I have to do a scan manually every day when I turn it on? Update every day as well? Thank You.
If you are using Windows XP then use Avast.
Mike
Ccleaner cleans out the cookies. Your password is save in a cookie. You can either tell your browser to save the password, which is not a cookie, or uncheck the box on the left in Ccleaner for cookies. It won’t clean up your cookies any more. Which can sometimes be a security risk.
I use the password system in Firefox to manage my passwords.
Mike
After I do my weekly cleanup utilities the password on one of our accounts deletes itself it seems it is the only one. What might cause this? This is frustrating.
Thanks to all for the great help!
Avast works decently with my 5 y/o Sony Vaio Desktop running XP. Should I switch to Microsoft Security Essentials?
(My old laptop is running AVG-Free…going to switch it to either Avast or Microsoft Security Essentials.)
Cheers,
Rich L. from Jersey…
Hi Mike:
Aww, that really bites about the forum.
It was SOOOO helpful.
Thanks a TON for the response!!
**I tried Winsockfix. Twice. IP address is still 0.0.0.0.
**I also tried resetting with netsh int ip reset resetlog.txt. IP address is still 0.0.0.0.
Device manager suggests NIC enabled/working properly. Is there some similar method to identify whether drivers are working properly?
I started searching for NVIDIA nForce Networking Controller for XP Pro (sp3) driver online. Downloaded from CNET and went digging around “System Information” on broken PC:
**The state of IP-related drivers is “stopped” (but “status” = OK) for ipfilterdriver, ipinip, nwlknflt, and nwlnkfwd. Is this okay?
**The state of NVIDIA drivers is “running” for nvnetbus and nvenetfd.
I haven’t a clue how to interpret any of this…is there a good source where I can go to translate network-ese into English?
Thanks,
Anne
Yep, the forum is gone. A forum is usually where people with knowledge help those that don’t. People helping people. It is unfortunate, but there the number of people helping and answering questions dwindled to about 2. They were not able to keep up, as volunteers, and I was getting huge quantities of email complaining about it. Soooo… It was easier to turn them off.
Download the Winsockfix program from my site. Run it, ignore any errors, and see if that fixes the network issue. Then try the drivers if it does not.
All versions of Windows come with the ability to update itself if it is turned on, which it is by default. You can check the setting in the Control Panel by clicking on the link/icon for Windows Update. There is nothing to download.
I want you to think about what you asked about the Smart Web Printing. The key word is printing. Hmmm… That tells me that the issue is caused by the printer or the printer software.
Instead of trying to track the error it is much simpler to just re-install the printer software. Or, you can see if there is an entry in the in the Add/Remove section of the Control Panel and just remove Web Printing if you don’t use it. Your choice.
Mike
Where did the old forum go?? I haven’t needed it in a long time, but it was my most trusted source of fantastic PC assistance–could always find a post with solutions!
My IP address on PC disappeared (ipconfig shows 0.0.0.0!!) about a week ago. I’ve checked modem/ethernet cord/NIC (all functional–I can get online with laptop). I’ve run AV/anti-malware and done several system restores, but no luck. Anyone have any suggestions what else I can do (short of buying new PC)?
Thanks!
Anne
Seen other comments here about Norton and Avast. I uninstalled Norton and installed Avast. Problem is I now get a window everytime I do something stating trying to install smart web printing. Have to hit about 3 windows to get rid of as they say no path to install. Anyone know how to correct this?
I was listening to WGN amd you were on, and they said somthing about an automatic updater for PC, I did not chatch the name or where to download? Help Please, and thank you.
Hi Vic,
The link is working fine. I suggest you try another browser and download it again. If that does not work, you might
have other issues with your computer.
I tried to download the Revo uninstaller but it gives me the “The webpage cannot be found” error. Please advise how to down load this.
Thanks,
For Mike D.
While you’re at it. Remove Ad-Aware since you no longer recommend that either.
When people see software on your site that conflicts with what you say on the radio (or what is located in a different area of the site) they get confused.
For Mike D.
If you remove AVG from your “setting up a DSL connection” list it will relieve some of the confusion.
Hi Pam and Rich L and everyone else, too.
Just to set the story straight.
We do not recommend AVG. Especially on older or under powered computers because it is a resource hog.
We still recommend Avast, but for Windows XP users. For Vista and Windows 7 we recommend Microsoft Security Essentials.
I hope that helps.
Mike
Reply to Rich L. You can listen to Website Wednesday Night the same way I do–via streamlink at http://www.wgnradio.com at 12:00 am Central Daylight Saving Time. Avast is no longer recommended simply because it takes up too much space.
Mike, I have been listening to Yourself and the rest of the Cybersquad on wgn for about 9 years now. Anyway, I am getting returned emails that i have not sent. So far, probably 80 or 90, and aol is threatening to close my account. I have run malwarebites, and avast but they both show no infections. Any ideas how to get rid of this problem? Thanks for any info. Bob G.
To: Rich L.
Yeah, Mike has a great site here and his weekly spot on WGN overnights with Steve and Johnnie is one of the more informative radio shows you will hear. I’ve been doing this stuff for more than twenty years, and I always pick up something good on the Wednesday night/Thursday morning radio show.
As for your Anti-Virus question: I’m not sure what Mike would say, but I would stick with the Avast! and AVG products as long as you’re not having problems with system resources. The only problems I’ve seen with Avast! or AVG has been on older machines lacking memory and/or processor horsepower to run them along with whatever programs you need.
I have –quite literally– used AVG or Avast! on close to a thousand computers since 2002, or so. I wouldn’t keep installing it if I thought it was crap.
Microsoft Security Essentials seems to be coming along, but I’ve not used it enough to form an opinion.
Cheers,
Karl A. Krogmann
Aging Uber Geek
Greetings…
Friend of mine turned me on to your site a year ago and it is simply amazing! Kudos for all you do!
Now to my question…
Do you have any recommendations for an anti-virus program? I use Avast on my desktop and AVG Free on my laptop; are there any better ones out there?
THANKS!
Rich L. from…
…New Jersey.
Mike D
it says that spyware blaster can not be found error 404.. whatever that means i hope it doesnt affect me in the long run.. but i have the rest of them and i ran them lat night and this morning and i want to thank you for your help this is the first time me and my computer could breath freely..
im forever in your debt
avie
Hi Avie Woods,
Are you following my step-by-step guide? It’s the first item on the list of downloads.
If not, look at it and download it. Then follow it religously!
Nowhere on my instructions does it mention Registry Booster. My instructions tell you to use Free Registry Repair (which is free).
As for Malwarebytes, it is FREE. You don’t have to pay for it.
You downloaded the wrong thing. More then likely clicked on an ad for Registry Booster somewhere.
Take Registry Booster off of your computer. Remove it.
And from here on in, you only need the items listed on my instructions. If you see a product or download for something else, don’t use it.
Mike
ok i got registry booster and before that my comp would freeze and slow whenever i played a game and everytime i would clear out my cache and run a scan.. my comp would still do the samethin mcafee never found anything niether did malware bytes.. registry found over 300 problems but inorder to fix them all i have to buy it.. samethin goes with everything else that says it works.. and yet my comp is still actin up.. do you have anything that will actually work without needing a credit card??
I did download advances windows care. As my computer had to reboot it was running a scan during the reboot is this normal? I wasnt sure so I bypassed it and took the program out.
u guys are the best never mis a show on wednesdays and learn new things every time GRACIAS.
Been listening to your weekly overnights with Steve and Johnnie for the past couple of years, and I never fail to pick up some new bit of information. Keep up the good work.
Peace,
Karl A. Krogmann
During the Spybot Search and Destroy there are some items that cannot be eliminated because I am not of “administrator” status. What does this mean and how do I get to be an administrator?
Please help clarify the CCleaner site… As a complete novice, I might be missing something. In Mike’s instructions, I clike on the download CCleaner and I arrive @ filehippo.com. I did not see the “run Cleaner button”in the lower right corner. I did see two choices that will take you to another site. And both discuss registry cleaning, which is later on the todo list!
Pleas Help…I finally have the time to sit and clean/speed up this computer…but now I’m the “slow” one!!
Thanks
Reesy
Hi Rich … You might be surprised at how far you can receive WGN Radio 720 … but even if you’re out of range (or out of country), you can listen on the internet. If there’s a Cubs game playing though, you won’t be able to connect until after it’s over
Based on a previos post. Is it safe to load advanced windows care?
I have loaded everything else.
I downloaded Avast because I don’t like Norton
I see on here that some say It’s no longer recommended.
I don’t see a reason
Hi Holly,
I did some research, and have not found any FREE anti-virus programs for an Apple Mac computer.
There are a number that make a paid anti-virus for Mac however. Norton, McAfee, and PC Tools make them.
Sorry I could not be more help.
Mike
I need a good free mac computer anti-virus
I need a good fre anti virus for my mac computer
I just downloaded Avast and got rid of Nortons. If Avast is not recomended now, what anti virus should I use?
Thank you for the help savemybutt. this website helped me alot.
Spyware blaster 4.3 is now available
I’m not from the Chicago area so unfortunately I’m not able to see your show…
however…
I’m a BIG fan of this site. VERY HELPFUL!
Question…
Why is Avast no longer recommended?
Thank,
Rich
I downloaded ccleaner. I thought these were free apps. After repaing the firt 4 problems they want to charge you. Did I do something wrong?
What is the better anti virus to use with Windows XP. Avast or Microsoft security essentials?
mike
I downloaded security essentials 4 weeks ago. Every 7 days it
stops working. I have to tell it to scan, then it’s ok till
the next week.
Pingback: New Maintenance Instructions and Changes - Savemybutt.com
The Windows uninstaller is not really an uninstaller at all. It is a program that lets you see what is installed and invokes the uninstall routine that comes with the software you installed. For instance, Adobe reader comes with it’s own uninstaller routine. When you use Windows uninstaller and you click on Remove or Uninstall, all you are doing is starting the Adobe uninstall routine.
The problem is that many, if not most, software makers know what they install on your computer, but don’t seem to know what to uninstall. Therefore, leaving files and registry entries on your computer when the uninstall routine is done.
Revo Uninstaller is a third party software that does several things. First, it runs the uninstall routine that comes with the software you are removing, then, when in advanced mode, it removes left over entries in the registry and left over files from your hard disk.
This is important because sometimes, left over registry entries or files can bog down your computer. Even causing an error from time to time.
Download Revo from my site’s download page. It is the older free version that works fine. If you go to the Revo website, the new free version doesn’t do a good job. You have to buy the paid version to get all the ability as the older one.
was looking into free rove uninstaller. Still a novice learning. Why would you want to install that download instead of just using your windows uninstall. Doesn’t it remove everything. We’re running Windows Vista Premium Home pack1 I believe. The more I learn seems the less I know!
I TAKE BACK WHAT I SAID ABOUT MIKE’S DOWNLOADS. Advanced Windows Care V2 cleared my registry to the point I could no longer download using IE8. (I should have updated to version 3). Auslogics free registry defrag caused me problems to where I had to pay to have my computer fixed. These software downloads are updated for a reason (according to the guys who fixed my computer and I believe them). Mike still has AVG as his anti-virus under “setting up a DSL connection”. He now considers it bloatware. Then said use Avast, now says Security Essentials. Belarc is on version 8.1 not 7.2. Maybe there’s a reason why the site comes up under “dangerous downloads” on search engines. If your going to have a site UPDATE it and the corresponding recommended downloads!
I withdraw my endorsement!
Hi! You do a great job on your WGN spot. Thanks! I am always grateful for technicians that can make complicated things simple! I’ve downloaded the suggested programs, however, I didn’t see that the issues related to Auslogics defragger had been resolved. Am I looking in the right place??
Thanks!
Help…just downloaded Auslogics free registry defragger and when computer rebooted (Windows 7) system will not start. Startup repair suggests system restore, and asks that system protection on drive be enabled. how can i do this when i can’t access my drive at all. Is there somewhere in Safe Mode to do this? I hope this program hasn’t fried my computer.
I had the same problem, Brian, below had. Ran all the “weekly” checks on a brand new Acer laptop, Windows 7, 64 bit, and after running Auslogics Registry Defrager, my laptop was unable to restart, reboot, or be repaired. The guy at Best Buy tried as well, and informed me the hard drive was fried. They replaced it with no problem since it was less than a month old. I am not installing this program again, and have had great success in the past with all of Mike’s recommendations but this one. Not sure why it’s crashing new systems???
I downloaded the firewall leak test from GRC.com and it says my firewall was penetrated. Where do I get a firewall that works? I checked and the firewall on my computer is checked on.
Just wanted to inform everyone of my experience when I used Auslogics Free Registry Defragmenter on my new computer I just got. I have Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit processor. I did the weekly utilities just like I have done with xp. However when I did the registry defragmenter and it told me to restart the computer, windows doesn’t boot. It gives me the message, “windows failed to start. recent hardware or software change could be the reason”. Then my computer tries to fix it but cannot. I’ve tried going into safe mode but but cannot. I am quite miffed and waiting on a call for help from the guy who built my computer . Hopefully it can be salvaged, grrr. Very depressed.
Thanks for all the info. Since using your downloads and all I have had no major problems either. Website Wed Night is a lot of fun. I added a custom hosts file for XP from mvps.org and am amazed with the number of ad servers trying to get at our machines through pages we visit, no wonder the things used to load so slow. Thanks for all the helpful information once again. :0)
It’s simple…download ALL of Mike’s recommended utilities and their corresponding versions. DO the weekly maintenance! SUBSCRIBE to the newsletter to receive free video tutorials/news/updates and you won’t have any problems. Since using Mike’s recommendations I have not had a major computer issue in over two and a half years. I still do use Avast however, but I have a faster (Vista) computer. Also TRY Firefox, I was hesitant at first, but now love it. Thank you Mike, I learn something new every Wed. night.
P.S. This is not a paid for endorsement. I just really appreciate when people share their knowledge and are willing to help others
Your material is really interesting and helpful. Sometimes when you talk, I think you are speaking directly to me. You are great. Thanks for your help.
Little consolation, perhaps, but for your home, get the Kaspersky internet security tools, or at the very least PC Tools Spyware Doctor w/AntiVirus. Buy them. Don’t rely on the “free” versions. They typically cover multiple computers (~3) in a household. And put up a firewall of course. And for the love of god stopping clicking on things you don’t recognize.
I just saw that you now endorse Security Essentials instead of Avast, but I assume that the software won’t work on XP. Please correct me if I am wrong.
Also, I updated my ZoneAlarm to 9.1.007.002 and it is hogging up my cpu usage. Do you still recommend ZoneAlarm or some other firewall for my XP desktop. If I remember, you suggest windows firewall for Vista (my laptop.)
Thanks.
Mike,I just finished cleaning up my wife’s laptop using the weekly utilities on a Vista machine. Afterwards I uninstalled all of them and installed Security Essentials as her new Antivirus,replacing Trend Micro PC Cillin program which I also uninstalled. Do I need to reinstall any of the weekly utilities on her Vista machine? Thank you for all the help your provide us on this site and on WGN with Steve & Johnnie.
Wondering if anyone has a cause (or better yet) a solution for the following: on a windows XP system, internet explorer AND firefox dont open. When I click on the program, I get no error msg, just a little hour glass, then it goes away. Both programs show they are loaded in the TaskManager but no program interface. So I can’t access any settings on either program. Also tried restarting in safemode w/networking. internet explorer version is 7 and FireFox is the latest ~3.6 I’ve run the latest version MalwareBytes and nothing shows. Wondering if there’s some unknown bug that would block the interface. Also, Google Installer keeps popping up saying that it encountered an error.
Rather urgent so any help is appreciated!
Belarc Advisor. http://www.belarc.com
i need the name of the Bellarc (sorry ’bout the spelling) link for the one that gives you a total look at all your system devices. Ty very much and I personally think you are the computer “GOD” of website wednesday nights!
No. Version 3 does not work as well as version 2 does.
Yes it will.
Will Microsoft/security essentials work with Windows Vista Basic ?
advanced windows care v2 now has a upgrade to v3. should I update this for my weekly utilities?
I want a second line of internet in my home, can you tell me what i need to do? i love listening to your show, you all need a raise for the great work you do. thank you so much.
Where did Avast go? I know I’ve missed a couple weeks of WEdnesday nights on WGN, but I didn’t think I was that far behind. I just read a post where somebody removed it. Is there a problem with Avast that I should know about? I am trying to follow the previous posts, but am having trouble putting it all together. Thank you in advance for your help.
Janice
Microsoft Security Essentials. http://microsoft.com/securityessentials
Remove McAfee first then install MSE
I have listened to you on the radio with Steve & Johnnie and you have talked about the free downloads that would replace McAfee. Well my subscription ran out and I would like to know which ones are the best to replace it with. I just installed the Firefox browser to replace IE. What do you recommend??
I signed up for the newsletter in early January and have not received one yet.
Sorry for going off-topic here, but I can’t seem to get an answer to my question about where the community forums went. The Contact Us link on this site doesn’t work and just brings me back to the home page. I emailed Mike and got an auto response telling me that I probably won’t get an answer and that I could go for help to the Community Forums at http://savemybutt.com, but that just brings me back here to the home page. If the forums have been discontinued or moved, please let me know. I really miss reading them. Thanks.
I am having a problem with Eusing Free Registry Cleaner. I have downloaded and installed it. When I try to run it, the window shows in the task bar but nothing happens on the screen. Once this happens, I cannnot remove it from the task bar. I have to restart to remove it. Have I done something wrong? This is a new installation. My other computers don’t have this problem.
Update – now after removing Zone Alarm and rebooting my Acer the wi-fi works again. I turned on the firewall in Windows. I hope this is sufficient.
Not sure if I should re-download Ccleaner fresh or just forget it.
I got a new Acer laptop with windows 7 at Christmas and had downloaded Avast….but after listening to the Website Wednesday show – I downloaded Microsoft security essentials and removed Avast.
This morning I downloaded Zone Alarm and shut off the Windows firewall. Then before I left for work I ran Ccleaner and checked as always to see if Ccleaner needed an update and it did. I downloaded the update (or tried to) and my machine (actually my cursor) froze up. I rebooted and again tried to run Ccleaner and again the cursor froze – so I shut the machine and went to work.
This evening I tried again – same thing. So I opened in safemode and deleted Ccleaner thinking that was the potential problem – still couldn’t use the cursor cept in safemode – so I thought I should delete Zone Alarm since that was just put on the other day. No luck. I am writing you from my other computer now because the Acer says it can’t get a wi-fi signal. What the heck have I done?
Till now that little Acer worked like a charm.
Everything stays the same as it was when you were using Avast. All you did was change anti-virus programs.
Hi,
Now that I have downloaded Microsoft Security Essentials, what else do I need to install? Do I need a Firewall, SpyBot, or some other program?
Thanks for your help, Mike.
Chuck
Hi,
No, Microsoft Security Essentials is not updated through IE or Windows Updates. Just like all other anti-virus programs, it updates on its own. Just like Avast does.
Mike
My question is regarding use of Microsoft Security Essentials,
Does this program also get updates through IE?
I assume that would be no problem. Am I correct?
I am currently using Avast and have had no complaints but will probably change!
How do I remove Avast so that I can install Microsoft Security Essentials?
Hi Mike
I will have to download the new virus software and run it. i just had to reload my laptop 2 days ago because it crashed. Hope I don’t have to do it again. Oh well. I do get to the Softpedia site and when I click on download it takes me to the perfectuninstaller site. i will d/l the antivirus.
Hi Gayle,
Hmmm… I’m not sure why the link doesn’t work for you other than your computer might have some sort of malicious software on it that is redirecting you to Perfect Uninstaller, which is not a product I recommend. When you click to download the Norton Removal Tool from my site, it takes you to the Softpedia download site with for the Norton Removal Tool.
Here is the direct link that my site takes you to: http://www.softpedia.com/get/Tweak/Uninstallers/Norton-Removal-Tool.shtml. If you don’t get to the Softpedia page using this link, then you definitely have an infected computer.
Also, as of the Feb 2nd show, we no longer recommend Avast. We are now recommending the Microsoft Security Essentials anti-virus software. You can download it at http://www.microsoft.com/securityessentials.
Mike
More info…when I click on your link it takes me to Perfectuninstaller for the download. You can download for free, but when attempting to actually uninstall that is when my above problem occurred So then I tried to get support, but to get support from them you have to purchase. I need to get rid of Norton so I can install AVAST. Please help.
I downloaded the software and tried to use it. When the list of my programs came up it appeared to be just a partial list and Norton wasn’t on it. Has anyone else had a problem?
The download links for the registry cleaner, Norton Removal Too, and Avast have been fixed.
Hi,
I can not change your email address for the newsletter. What you need to do is subscribe to the newsletter again using your new email address. You can open one of the old newsletters if you have one, scroll to the bottom and click the link to un-subscribe first. If you don’t unsubscribe, don’t worry about it.
This is my new email address. Could you update it from kitten3.1@juno.com. Thank you.
Steven, if you just search for EUSING FREE REGISTRY CLEANER, you will be able to find it to download. Thanks Mike for your weekly Instructions. I have been able to get my computer working and safe after completing your instructions every week!
Hi,
As you can see, the site is still under construction as I redesign and migrate it to another format. There are still a few bugs I am working on, including your question. It should be in a day or two.
while try to download the EUSING FREE REGISTRY CLEANER it said it could not be found, when do think it will be available.
thank you.
Thanks for all you WGN help Wed….