How to fix a virus infected Windows XP machine for free.

Steps:

1. Download the following tools:
   • AVG Free (for consumers only) Anti-Virus at http://free.grisoft.com
   • Ewido (trial) at http://www.ewido.net
   • Nod32 (trial) at http://www.eset.com
   • AdAware at http://www.lavasoft.de
2. Install all of the above tools.
3. Update all of the above tools.
4. Run scans with all of the above tools. This should remove most viruses.
5. If Windows is corrupted, run a Windows "repair installation" by following the directions at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/learnmore/tips/doug92.mspx
6. Uninstall Ewido and Nod32.

   Tips:

• Before doing all of this, download Rootkit Revealer from http://www.sysinternals.com and run this software. If it reveals a number of discrepancies, consider taking your machine to a professional.
• If you consider yourself an expert user, using "Autorun Explorer" from http://www.sysinternals.com in safe mode can quickly stop viruses from running on-boot, making it easier to remove them. Do not use this software unless you are an expert user.

Warnings:

• The chances of these steps leaving your operating system in shambles is high.
• Use common sense. Do not do anything that you are not comfortable doing.
• Do not do this on someone elses computer without their permission.