HijackThis is a free program, now licensed by Trend Micro, which scans for computer changes caused by malware (spyware, viruses, adware etc.), including Web “browser hijackers,” as they are called, hence the name.
HijackThis also allows you to see what is really running on your computer, things that the Task Manager may miss, and allows you to terminate those applications.
If your computer is running well, it is also a good time to run HijackThis before problems arise. Should you later get a spyware or virus infection, you will have a reference point to work from.
Who is HijackThis Designed For?
Though HijackThis was originally designed for advanced users, many free online forums exist dedicated to helping others with the program and spyware removal. Consequently, an average computer user can post the data HijackThis generates and receive feedback on what to do to remedy their PC problems.
So, if you haven’t been scared away yet, read on to learn how you can save your computer, and costly tech fees, with the HijackThis program.
Programs Needed First
The first three steps to getting the most from HijackThis are as follows:
1) If needed, Download CleanUp! (or similar program) Function: Erases unneeded files that may complicate HijackThis results.
2) If needed, Download Adware/Spyware Remover: Removes malicious files. (AVG Anti-Malware Trial)
3) Download the HiJackThis program. (Direct from the Trend Micro Web site)
Why Files Need To Be Removed?
If you utilize a HijackThis forum the program requirements may vary a bit from the above but should be similar. After viewing a HijackThis log you will better understand why these programs are necessary.
In a nutshell, you want to erase junk and temporary files that collect as you browse the Web or install programs. These temporary files make the HijackThis log too long and difficult to interpret as well as often slow down your PC.
Further, if you run an anti-malware program before making changes with HijackThis, the chance of success is significantly increased.
How to Use HijackThis
Install the HijackThis program.
Follow the instructions at one of the sites listed below or at GeeksToGo.
Click on HijackThis icon and “Do a scan and save a log file.”
Save the log file to your desktop.
Advanced Users
Review the information if you understand it, or refer to the HijackThis tutorials below.
Take the necessary precautions as described.
Click on objects you wish to remove only if you know what you are doing.
Click on Fix Checked.
HijackThis Help
Each entry in the HijackThis program is preceded by an alpha-numeric entry designed to identify the category for each entry. Bleepingcompter.com provides one of the best tutorials on these entries and advance information on the HijackThis program. An efficient HijackThis tutorial is also available at CastleCops.com
Bleepingcomputer.com also includes a forum for posting the HijackThis log file where you can obtain assistance.
As spyware and computer problems can be complex, you may not receive a solution immediately, or at any given HijackThis forum. Consequently, some additional sources for HijackThis help are provided below.
Please use your own discretion when using any HijackThis forum. While many are very helpful, some are designed to promote various internet security products.
