Swportal

[...I have received numerous messages stating that the files associated with this programme cannot be renamed. That tells me that the programme is running at the time an attempt is made (note that I have not installed SWPORTAL on any of my systems, so am working on 'standard operating procedure')... Sandi]

First, make sure the programme is not running. Use Task Manager (ctrl, alt, delete key combination) and shut down everything except for Explorer and Systray. If using XP, 2000 or NT etc check the running processes if the programme doesn't appear in the list of running programmes.

Once the programme has been turned off, you should be able to proceed.

Search for a programme file called SWcaller2.exe or similar. Rename it. Do not delete it until you are certain that no harm is being done to any other programme that may be dependent upon swportal.

Search for any files called SWPORTAL*.* and SWCALLER*.* (where * is variable). Rename them as well.

Check you startup folder for any suspicious shortcuts.

The more advanced may like to check win.ini [load] and [run]

Also check the following registry keys for references to the programme (those who are less experienced may wish to use MSCONFIG (go to start, run and type MSCONFIG then check the startup tab).

Export the keys before editing any particular references, and ALWAYS ask for advice in the microsoft.public newsgroups if you are unsure:

[..HKLM = HKEY Local Machine ... HKCU = HKEY Current User...]

HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run

HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce

HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ RunServices

HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\ RunServicesOnce

HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce

HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run