Checkpoints back to Oct 23 - none of them work. I run restore, it states and it looks and sounds like files are being restored and when the system reboots it says that the system couldn't be restored to that checkpoint.

Any ideas as to where to go from here? Also, if I end up (as it looks) that I have to rebuild the system, how do I prevent this from happening in the future?

Download the HostsXpert here
Funkytoad.com -fast, functional and free - HostsXpert v4.2

Unzip HostsXpert to your desktop

Open up the HostsXpert program.

* Make sure that the "make hosts writable?" button in the upper right corner is enabled.
* Click back up Host files
* then click Restore original host files
* close program

Try running F-secure again.

Although I confirmed the correct default hosts file in the pre-work, I ran this as you said and there was no benefit - still can't get to f-secure.

norm

Can you access F-secure if you reboot in SAFE MODE WITH NETWORKING???

Tap F8 during startup and select SAFE MODE WITH NETWORKING.

I'll check that when I get home. I also downloaded, but not yet installed, f-secure's installed product (30 day free trial). Do you think this will provide the same benefit as the on-line tool?

You can try it but I wouldn't buy it yet. One thing I like about their online scanner is that it will scan for rootkits. Their downloadable version does not say whether it does or not. It says "all internet threats" so that means it should. When you get a chance let me know what it finds.