Also viruses like Trojan horses can be a real problem to remove.
That is an excellent point! Some bugs are so bad that a system needs to be reloaded afterwards. Even when the Trojan is removed they still leave damage behind (corrupted files, etc.).
People often ask me why their antivirus program didn't stop a Trojan. First, not all Trojans are viral; some are adware or other type of malicious software. Second, remember, Trojans are called Trojans because they'e able to sneak into your computer undetected. You MUST run periodic scans to detect them properly.
One more tip about virus/malware removal that most folks are not aware of: Forget using System Restore if you have been infected! Yes, you read that correctly! Trojans have a nasty habit of replicating themselves to the restore file.
In fact to properly clean a trojan you must turn system restore OFF and delete any and ALL restore points if you have had a virus/malware. Remove the virus/malware. then After the virus/malware has been removed, you can turn system restore back on.
Which brings up another excellent point Mike made:
Do not store anything on your computer that you are afraid to never be able to recover again. Make sure to keep it backed up on the cloud, jump drive, external drive... All three is best. Redunency is the best policy.
Most excellent, two thumbs up advice right there!
Hey TentHunteR do you know anything about System Mechanic?
Yes, as a general rule I don't recommend those types of programs. But then again I understand how to get in and adjust the system registry, etc. It's OK for the average person AS LONG AS IT'S NOT RUNNING IN THE BACKGROUND!
Monitoring programs running in the background can actually interrupt and corrupt systems files being installed by new programs or updates. The monitoring program is trying to watch for and stop changes being made to the system, and the new program is trying to make system changes. Which one is going to win? That's why you should ALWAYS disable your anti-virus type programs before installing new software or major updates.
System mechanic can do a better job at defragging than windows IN NORMAL MODE, but I still contend it doesn't and cannot do it properly while other programs are running in the background. The files that are in use simply cannot be defragged, because they're in use (heh, makes sense doesn't it?).
Programs such as Registry Fix, Driver Fix, etc. are a horrible waste of money in my opinion. I've had to Fix too many computers
If you are having major problems, take it to someone who truly knows what they're doing and let them handle it properly.