Ask A Geek

Q: I recently downloaded some freeware programs (RegCure, RegistryFix7, CCleaner) to help bring my Presario V5105US current. Is it safe to simply follow the on screen dialog boxes? There are some menu choices that look sort of ominous, like everything that’s listed will disappear. Some of those listed items look significant.

Do I just trust the program to not damage my system, files etc.? Are there any precaution that I should be aware of? Same sort of question about drivers. The free one that seems most respected did a free scan that showed a lot of outdated drivers. Do I just have to hit the button to replace them?

Do I have to pay for them or is the “freeware” free for updates as well as the free system scan. Sorry, but I’m still a newbie. w/too many uncertainties. I guess some of these freeware programs are more reliable & trustworthy than others. Any recommendations will be appreciated.

Q: Is there one program that can fix and clean your PC? I run reg.cure and ccleaner but I have other problems come up and am wondering if I should run something else.

Q: I have Windows XP and an HP Photosmart 8150 printer. In my c:\program files I found a folder called “overland” with a lot of other data when clicked yet nothing opens. Is it safe to remove all?

Q: Neither Spyware Doctor nor McAfee VirusScan Plus can get rid of the malware that has infected my Windows XP computer. How can I get rid of this virus?

A: As you may have read here on Ask A Geek, the most effective way to remove malware and other security threats is to reformat your computer’s hard drive. This is especially true when all attempts to remove the malware have failed. I understand that reinstalling Microsoft Windows and all of your programs seems extreme. But even in cases where you have successfully deleted a security threat from your computer, the damage caused by that threat may remain. Here’s how you should proceed: Read the rest of this entry »

Q: The cursor on my Dell Inspiron laptop is very erratic. I tried changing mouse settings such as speed and sensitivity, but that didn’t help! Can you diagnose the problem and give me a solution?

A: It sounds to me like your trackpad is dirty. Even if you wash your hands before touching your computer, your hands still transfer lots of oils, dead skin cells, and other contaminants to the surface of your trackpad. The sensors in your trackpad are probably mistaking these contaminants for commands from your fingers.

The first step for cleaning your trackpad is to shutdown your computer; this prevents the cursor from clicking on things in your computer as you clean. Then use a damp paper towel to clean your trackpad. Next, use a dry paper towel to absorb as much of the remaining moisture as possible from the trackpad. Even after using a dry paper towel, some moisture will remain on your trackpad. Since moisture is a kind of contaminant, you must wait about 5 minutes for the remaining wetness to evaporate. Read the rest of this entry »