When I try to download a file using Firefox (v13.0) the download starts fine and the progress shows up in the download window until completion. However, when I look in the folder that I have specified for the download the file is not there even though it shows as having downloaded. I have tried various destination folders without any success. Similarly if I use 'Save as' to save an attachment from Thunderbird it does not appear in the specified folder but shows up in the 'Saved files' window as it is saving. I have 'searched' the computer but there is no sign of the download(s). Could this be related to my switch to BT's broadband? The download problem seems to have started since switching at the weekend. I am using Vista Home Premium SP2, AMD Turion 64 X2 Mobile Tech TL-50 1.6GHz, 1 GB RAM, 32-bit OS.
I don't see how. This has nothing to do with networking. Have you scanned for malware? For a test, go out to CCleaner - Slim Version Without toolbar and do a "Save As" to your desktop. Is it there?
Thanks for quick response. I've done a 'Save as' on the image to the desktop and it hasn't appeared. I've downloaded the CCleaner file as well which shows in the 'Downloads' window (ccsetup319_slim.exe) but has not appeared in the downloads folder.
And when you enter ccsetup319_slim.exe in the search box, what appears? And again, have you scanned for malware?
The search returns no results. I'm doing a full scan now and will report back once it has finished. Thanks.
In the Firefox download window, right click on the file you downloaded and select Open Containing Folder. That should take you to where it was placed.
The 'Open' and 'Open containing folder' options are shaded grey and inoperative. Have been unable to scan because now AVG won't respond. I've tried to scan specific folders as well as the whole system but it won't respond.
In the FireFox Options window, on the General tab, make sure Always ask me where to save files is selected.
"Always ask me....." is now selected (it was set up to download to desktop) but it doesn't seem to make any difference. I am becoming convinced that there is some form of malware on it now. I seem to be in catch 22. I can't download any new software to scan for malware and my AVG won't scan. I would like to uninstall the BT Broadband software but I'm worried that I will then lose my internet connection. However, I am very tempted to try it anyway and re-install afterwards if it doesn't change anything. Thanks for your help guys and I'll let you know how it goes.
Okay, I have uninstalled the software from BT (internet connection is fine) and restarted but no progress. Have downloaded an image from google as a test and it is showing in the downloads window but not appearing anywhere else. Thanks for your interest guys. I think I will have to bite the bullet and visit local repair shop on Monday morning and see if he can perform a scan to identify any nasties. I will post back with any results.
Before you spend money at a repair shop, go to the Spyware, Adware, Viruses and Malware Removal forum, read the first post and follow instructions. Come back here once you get a clean bill of health if you still have problems. If there is malware our guys will get it cleaned up for you at no charge.
Sorry that I have not posted back sooner. Unfortunately, needing to get the machine fixed so I could carry on working, I had already handed over to the repair shop before Ztruker's post above. However, the "MOT" only set me back £20 and as well as clearing up the problem it now runs much smoother and faster. Big thanks to all who offered help and advice. Next time I will spend more time browsing the site: the "Spyware, Adware, Viruses and malware Removal" forum looks pretty comprehensive.
