To be honest with you, I don't really know what the problem is. I know what we have fixed was bad.

I suggest you have a read of this info:

Preventing it returning

After your problem has been resolved on the forum, it is an absoulute MUST to do the following steps to prevent the problem returning. Click on the link to get access to the software or webpage that I'm referring to.

1. Visit Windows Update
Pay a visit to Windows Update and scan for and download ALL Critical Updates and Service Packs. New updates are usually released monthly so check back to Windows Update every month.

2. Download Antivirus Software-
If you haven't already got Antivirus software, you should download and install AVG Antivirus. It is freeware and is updated nearly every 2 days (sometimes more frequently if there are a lot of new viruses) and in my opinion, is better than some Antivirus software such as Norton. Antivirus software will prevent viruses infecting your system and it is important that you update it every two days or every week at the most.

3. Download a Firewall-
If you haven't already got a firewall, it is Very important that you download one. Firewalls will prevent unauthorised access to your computer and stop data leaking out of your computer. You may think that it won't happen to you, but Hackers don't care who you are, what you do, where you live or what you had for tea last Sunday on your holiday in the Lake District, they want your data. Firewalls will keep these sneaks out and one of the best is Sygate Personal Firewall, which happens to be freeware.

4. Spyware Scanners-
It is important that as well as having real time spyware protection, you have a spyware scanning application. If you have not already been told to download one earlier in this thread, it is a good idea to download Spybot Search And Destroy and Ad-aware. They are both spyware scanners and will search for a remove spyware. It is recommended that you have both, because one will pick up entries that the other misses. It is even a good idea to download these if you have other programs such as ASE, Spysweeper, Pest Patrol, etc, because one spyware scanner will not pick up everything. Please remember to update your spyware scanners weekly/fortnightly.

5. Prevent Spyware slipping through Internet Explorer-
Quite a lot of spyware slips through Internet Explorer if your settings are not tight enough. Spyware Blaster will help you prevent spyware slipping through and installing tracking cookies. Simply run it via Start> Programs> Spyware Blaster and click Enable All Protection and it will protect you. It doesn't even have to be open! Remember to update weekly/fortnightly.

6. Constant Spyware Protection-
It is important to have constant spyware protection. Spyware Guard works like an antivirus program but detects Spyware instead. It will constantly protect your system. Check for updates monthly.

All Of these steps are very important and it is HIGHLY recommended that you download all of the programs mentioned for your own safety. Remember to Update everything (including Windows using Windows Update)! It is also a good idea to perform weekly/fortnightly scans with Spybot S&D, Ad-aware and your antivirus software.

And last of all, please remember, that common sense is your greatest tool. Without it, spyware and other related Malware would rule!

Ok Qwen We fully conform on points 1-5. I have just downloaded and INSTALLED the SpyWare Guard. At present is will not update but I will give it a go tomorrow . Fingers crossed Thanks for a SUPERB SERVICE regards Bob

Owen I checked 7-30am today no problem. Tonight I checked and again ok . I monitored home page for 25 mins all ok STAYED PUT. This is therfore a unqualified success down to you IE only TWO clicks and we have fix. You must know how I feel and Its down to you THANKS. PS since I did windows s p 2 things generally ie start up seem to be slower and P M free indicator in N S W hovers around 60mbts As far as I remember I updated memory to 256 and I believe that was max I could do. Is ther any way off adding more ? IE what is limit EG sockets Regards BOB

I'm afraid I don't understand what your asking. If your question is regarding hardware, try posting in one of the hardware forums, you'll get a better answer there than from me.

Qwen ok will do. The 2 items are in a back up folder can i DELEAT thanks BOB

Which two items are in a backup folder? If your reffering to the Hijack This backup folder, delete anything you wish.

Owen I was refering to the BAD deleted items that i deleted as you advised At least I think thats what the are I have all hjtl identified. However I moved into norton protected recycle bin . Glad to report all fine for second day so I am sure we have a fix Thanks again I am reading posts and learning all the time ! BOB

Yes it will be fine to delete them

Owen All is done and ok all week thanks for all your swift responses END bob

You are very welcome.