My wife's computer was running slowly so I ran Norton Virus Scan. It found approximately 30 files that were adware so I (stupidly) decided to manually find the files and delete them, rather than running Spybot. Because of my stupidity, three problems have occurred.
1. An error message for Java Virtual Machine Launcher pops up every time I turn on the computer.
The error message reads “Could not find the main class. Program will exit.” I researched this problem on the Java website and eventually was able to get rid of the error message by using the System Configuration Utility and unchecking the Startup command. The command starts as:
javaw –cp <file path>
and the file path to which it refers I manually deleted from the registry.
I’ve tried to delete the startup command, but I can’t seem to do it. Is there a way in which I can remove this startup command from the System Configuration Utility? I have also tried unsuccessfully to remove the adware in question (WebSavingsfromEbates) using Add/Remove Software in the control panel.
2. My Internet Explorer no longer accesses the internet.
I’m not sure if this problem is the result of problem #1, or whether I screwed something else up. I know that I still have access to the Internet thru my cable as I have successfully received Windows Updates since this problem occurred. When I open by browser on any website, it tells me that the website is not available. Is there anything I can do to fix this problem, or will I have to reinstall Internet Explorer?
3. System Restore will not allow me to access any previously saved restore points.
I hadn’t used System Restore for many months on the computer in question, but I do know that I have restore points in the past. Currently, System Restore will not allow me to scroll back into months prior to October 2004. Is this normal? Do restore points eventually expire? Is there any way around this problem? I imagine that if I can restore my machine to a prior date, then some of the current problems might be fixed.
If any of you can help me, I would be forever indebted. If any further information is needed, I’m willing to communicate via email or even telephone.
Thanks, Jeff Wall