Expert: James Filmer - 12/11/2011

Question
QUESTION: I have an hP with windows XP.  I recently installed iolo system mechanic hoping to speed up my system, but it did nothing AND it didn't remove the virus that has started REDIRECTING all of my?  Thanks!!!

ANSWER: Iolo is not an anti-virus or anti-spyware application. Repairing the registry, defragging the hard drive, and eliminating unnecessary files is what it does. If you've already purchased it fine, but those things can be done freely or cheaper for personal computer users.

Redirecting in what browser? Do you have addons or toolbars? http://antivirus.about.com/od/securitytips/ht/ieaddons.htm tells how to disable addons in IE - which might be the cause. Need to know more about your system and configuration.

Make sure you've downloaded and installed all critical Windows security updates.
Then, let me know that security applications you're using including Firewall. You can access and learn more about several reputable security apps on http://enrgy21.com.

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QUESTION: The iolo version I purchased says it does have internet security and realtime antivirus.  It is the system mechanic professional.  It is using my windows firewall and says it is on.  But I still have these BS "shopping" or "you win!!!" websites pop-up sometimes when I am searching through google- I even had one open when I opened your email reply.  I disabled lots of add-ons in Internet Explorer.  My outlook express email messed up and now I can't receive emails through it.  I can only open emails from 10-30-11 and back- the newer ones "can't be displayed".  AND I often get an "IE encountered a problem with generic host processing WIN 32 and needs to shut down" message.  Those come out of the blue.  Strangely, I didn't seem to get "redirected" when searching from yahoo.  But I disabled about 3 google toolbars- which might explain why my google page format and toolbar seems to sometimes change all by itself.  Thanks for your help/continued help.

Answer
Here's your problem. With security suites that are supposed to do everything, especially including system maintenance, there are some cons, just like pros.

I know of no security suite able to detect/remove all malware, adware, spyware, virus threats, especially rogue and legit applications that place toolbars and addons on the system and in your browser, sometimes without the user's permission. There are some things regarding security and system maintenance one should know about, beyond expecting a suite to do everything all the time with never a problem.

Adding an additional security application, might help, but compatibility with Iolo may or may not be issue. Don't know enough about Iolo to give more info, but you should consult with them directly, since you purchased it. Hopefully, they have a professional support team that really does assist you in a timely manner. (Keep in mind, promoting their product will be a priority for them).

Continue learning about your browser's security configuration preferences. Whatever a suite like Iolo may do, one should be prepared for what it can't do, or doesn't do as well as expected. Remember to visit http://enrgy21.com and http://about.com for information and links to sites that provide excellent info as well.