Files beginning with a

Part of AVG Anti-Spyware from Grisoft

Detected by F-secure as the OBFUSCATED.GP TROJAN!

Added by the DLOADR-ASH TROJAN!

Added by the SDBOT-DEN WORM!

Added by the NETSKY.M WORM!

One-click activated browsing toolbar used by various web-sites. See here for more info

Commercials file that registers itself in the system registry and redirects IE to a certain commercial website

"A Note is a program that lets you create post-it like notes on your Microsoft Windows desktop"

a-Squared antitrojan - can be run on demand but necessary in Startup if you prefer the a? 'Background Guard' real time protection feature

a-sqaured Anti-Dialer

Anonymity 4 Proxy - local proxy server that makes you anonymous when visiting web sites

a-Squared antitrojan - can be run on demand but necessary in Startup if you prefer the a? 'Background Guard' real time protection feature

??

Advanced Anti-Keylogger - "Anti-spy software to prohibit operation of any keyloggers currently in use or presently being developed anywhere"

LANDesk? Management Suite software component

Added by the DELF.LJ TROJAN!

PurityScan/Clickspring adware

AdBlaster adware

Appears to be related to software from Accenture.com

Ad-Aware anti-spyware tool from Lavasoft

System Tray access to Ad-aware from Lavasoft - popular spyware/adware removal tool

Added by a variant of the Storm/Nuwar/Zhelatin WORM! See here for an example

EPJ TROJAN!

Monitoring utility for ABIT Motherboards. Displays system voltages, temperatures and fan speeds

Added by the DERMON-G TROJAN!

Part of the ArcaVir antivirus suite from Polish company Arcabit. What does this part do?

Absolute Startup - startup monitor from F-Group Software

Added by the AUTOUPDER TROJAN!

Abyss web server

"Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" for the Lexmark X63 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Button manager for features such as scan, scan to E-mail, copy, etc

"Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" for the Lexmark X63 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Button manager for features such as scan, scan to E-mail, copy, etc

"Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" for the Lexmark X73 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Button manager for features such as scan, scan to E-mail, copy, etc

"Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" for the Lexmark X83 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Button manager for features such as scan, scan to E-mail, copy, etc

"Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" for the Lexmark X84-X85 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Button manager for features such as scan, scan to E-mail, copy, etc

Advanced Call Center - "full-featured yet easy-to-use answering machine software for your voice modem"

Webroot Accelerate - allows you to optimize Windows network registry settings in order to boost surfing speeds. Leave this enabled if you find it improves your connection

Monitors your progress on the internet; hang-ups, connection speeds, internet congestion and traffic flow. It prevents some games from running also. To disable the Access Ramp Monitor (1) Open Windows Explorer (2) Open the Program Files folder (3) Open the MindSpring folder (4) Open the AccessRamp folder (5) Double-click on the ARMCfg32.exe file (6) Uncheck Enable Dialup Monitor and click OK (7) Restart the computer and try again

Part of SmartPipes SecureSite software. "SecureSite enables rapid turnup and enhanced administration of VPNs. It automates and simplifies tasks for VPN design and policy management, access control management, and key management"

My AccessMedia toolbar related, stealth installed!

From a visitor "Just wanted to provide you with some info on Access Ramp software installed with Verizon DSL accounts in those areas that use the Winpoet PPPoE software. The Access Ramp TSRs are installed as part of IP Insight software (can't remember the software maker). You can decline to install IP Insight during Winpoet setup, or go into Add/Remove programs uninstall IP Insight by hand if it's already installed. It really doesn't do a darn thing for you. It was intended to help DSL techs monitor QoS, but the backend part was never implemented (at least as of earlier this year). This will not affect the user's ability or inability to access their DSL service."

Version of the AccessRamp Monitor01 entry for LAN connections - a history uploader. The key in turning it off is a file named ARUCfg32.exe. This file (ARUCfg32.exe) does not show up in the startup process. If you have this file, you can execute it and remove all the monitoring activities it does. Removing all the checks in all the boxes (both tabs) still calls ARUpld32.exe to start when you start the dial up. You can block it from sending info if you have Zone Alarm installed. Renaming the extension of ARUCfg32.exe to ARUCfg32.exe1 works. The ARUpld32.exe is not loaded when launching the dial up client. Written by IP Insight and also included with Earthlink Total Access 2003

Norton? Password Manager - part of Norton SystemWorks 2004 - stores passwords and other personal information, and retrieves the data needed for email logins, shopping orders, banking, and other online activities - all from the safety of your own PC

Desktop weather from AccuWeather

Added by the RULAND.A WORM!

Added by the RULAND.A WORM!

ACDSee 8 photo software. Organize, manage, enhance, and share all your valued photo memories

??

Part of Acer Empowering Technology. "Acer ePower Management is a straightforward interface that allows users to select from pre-configured power usage profiles, or to create their own customized profiles"

Acer Product Registration - remove when registration is completed

Acer Computer "Goto Drive" Cold Swap Driver - a swappable second disk drive provides convenient backup of large files, or easy importation of data from user's previous computer

System Tray access on some Acer Notebooks to give faster access to system settings

Added by the GAOBOT.PQA WORM!

ActivCard Gold from ActivIdentity, Inc. Smart card-based strong authentication software - for photo IDs, proximity badges for facility access and as digital identification and authentication

Altiris AClient Service Windows Tray Icon

Button monitor for the Lexmark X63 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Works in conjunction with the "Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" button manager whose filename is "AcBtnMgr_X63.exe"

Button monitor for the Lexmark X63 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Works in conjunction with the "Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" button manager whose filename is "AcBtnMgr_X63.exe"

Button monitor for the Lexmark X73 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Works in conjunction with the "Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" button manager whose filename is "AcBtnMgr_X73.exe"

Button monitor for the Lexmark X83 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Works in conjunction with the "Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" button manager whose filename is "AcBtnMgr_X83.exe"

Button monitor for the Lexmark X84-X85 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Works in conjunction with the "Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" button manager whose filename is "AcBtnMgr_X84-X85.exe"

Mouse driver - required if you use non-standard Windows driver features

Adult content dialler

Control panel program for Philips Acoustic Edge soundcard. Not required unless changed settings aren't retained

Program for finding trucks on-line

Added by the SMALL-ECT TROJAN!

Essential for creating PDF files with Adobe Acrobat and Acrobat Distiller. For Win9x/Me systems you can run this file manually beforehand. For WinXP systems this file must run at startup. Hence the "U" recommendation. *.* represents the version

Added by the VANBOT-BQ TROJAN!

Speeds up the time it takes to load Adobe's Acrobat PDF creation and management tool. From version 7.0 onwards

Related to ACROMOUSE Laser mouse control

Sage Software's ACT! "enables individuals and small business customers to instantly access key contact and customer information, manage and prioritize activities, and track all contact-related communications so you can grow productive business relationships"

Associated with a Plustech scanner. Small utility that runs in the background for doing fax/copy/etc. Available via Start -> Programs

"A COM server that runs on the client as part of the Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation 6.x package; provides a simple method for a remote administrator to perform actions on the instrumented client". Is it required?

Part of Microsoft Money

Added by the MYTOB.BZ WORM!

Active CPU - "easy to use tool for Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000 that enables you to watch a graphical representation of your CPU's activity"

XemiComputers Active Desktop Calendar

Active Email Monitor checks multiple accounts for email, serves as a SPAM filter and can also protect you from harmful items that can be sent via email

Active Shield is "an heuristic screen that actively protects your computer from trojans, spyware, adware, trackware, dialers, keyloggers, and even some special kinds of viruses"

Added by the OPASERV.T WORM!

ActiveEyes from TFI Technology is a small utility that you can use to liven up your desktop. It follows your mouse around and can tell you how far your cursor has travelled or point out where the cursor is. It's small, it's free and comes with a range of options and animations. Not needed - if unavailable via Start -> Programs, create your own shortcut

"Active Keys is a powerful yet easy-to-use tool for creating and managing keyboard shortcuts for any system action"

Wild Tangent demo games that come with some HP computers. Unchecking it can prevent the games from running occasionally. Note that WildTanget's privacy policy used to state that they also collect and share individuals information but this is no longer the case

Interactive Agents Plugin for Messenger Plus! (MSN Messenger add-on)

Added by the RBOT-FKQ WORM!

Ascentive ActiveSpeed internet optimizer - not recommended, see here and here

ActiveWords from ActiveWord Systems, Inc. Like macro programs, ActiveWords sits in the background and watches as you type. When it recognizes that you?ve typed an ActiveWord, it takes the associated action, such as replacing your keystrokes with the text you?ve defined

ActivityKey keystroke logger/monitoring program - remove unless you installed it yourself!

"ActMaker mouse and keyboard toolkit can record the daily operation of your computer and reduce your workload. You don't need to do any coding, nor are you required to know a lot about the computer"

ActMaker mouse and keyboard toolkit can record the daily operation of your computer and reduce your workload

System Tray icon for ThinkVantage Access Connections - "allowing users to seamlessly switch between wired and wireless environments, managing security settings, printers, home page and other location-specific settings automatically"

Actual Window Manager from Actual Tools - "an innovative desktop organization application which introduces unconventional window controls and also automatic general window operations making your work more productive, convenient and enjoyable"

Actual Window Minimizer - "allows minimizing any window to task tray notification area or to the edge of the screen"

Atheros wireless Client Utility

Atheros wireless Client Utility

Related to IBM ThinkVantage Connectivity Solution

Ad Away popup and banner remover

Ad Muncher removes adverts, pop-ups and general annoyances in your browser, file-sharing and messenger programs. Causes conflicts with Outlook, game sites and web-building applications

??

Ad-aware from Lavasoft - popular spyware/adware removal tool

Added by the RBOT-ADJ WORM! Note - this is not the popular Ad-aware spware/adware removal tool and is located in the WinntSystem32 or WindowsSystem32 directory

Ad-Eliminator spyware remover - not recommended, see here

Ad Muncher removes adverts, pop-ups and general annoyances in your browser, file-sharing and messenger programs. Causes conflicts with Outlook, game sites and web-building applications

Ad-Protect spyware and spam monitoring tool

Part of Lavasoft Ad-aware Plus - realtime spyware-monitor watching your memory and registry for spyware that tries to install or change your system

Executable for Active Disk from Iomega disk - allows software applications to be run directly from an Iomega Zip? disk. Required if you wish the applications to launch on insertion of a disk

Ad-aware from Lavasoft - popular spyware/adware removal tool

RapidBlaster variant (in a "Adaware" folder in Program Files). Recommended you use RapidBlaster Killer to uninstall - see here. Note - this is not the valid Lavasoft Adaware

RapidBlaster variant (in a "Adaware" folder in Program Files). Recommended you use RapidBlaster Killer to uninstall - see here. Note - this is not the valid Lavasoft Adaware

AdBin - "Free and easy solution to managing your Window's hosts file. A fun way to block ads"

CoolWebSearch/HomeSearch adware - for examples, see this log

CoolWebSearch/HomeSearch adware - for examples, see this log

CoolWebSearch Addclass parasite variant

Banner advertisment blocker

Virtual Bouncer - malware from Spyware Labs. It is distributed by the same bundling and drive-by download techniques as the parasites it claims to remove, so definitely qualifies as unsolicited commercial software in itself. It also has an update feature that can download and execute arbitrary code. Warning - choose "custom" uninstall as "automatic" may remove other programs - see here

Related to Adobe Photoshop

SoundBlaster Audigy related?

Added with SoundBlaster Live! or Audigy soundcards for headphone autodetection

Added by the SPAMSRV-E TROJAN!

ADSL USB modem related

Added by the TIBS-QT TROJAN!

Part of Advanced Spyware Remover anti-spyware tool

Added by a variant of the SDBOT TROJAN!

Adware, probably a Windupdates variant

Windupdates adware variant

Related to Acer Inc. destop tray

Added by an unidentified VIRUS, WORM or TROJAN!

Added by the RANDEX.DFJ WORM!

Speeds up the time it takes to load Adobe's Acrobat PDF creation and management tool. From version 7.0 onwards

Added by the RBOT-OP WORM!

Adjusts monitor colours across all programs, including Photoshop. It is needed by some graphics professionals who want their monitor calibrated. Most home users will not need it. In my case I can verify this as Photoshop loads fine

Part of Adobe's Photoshop Album or Photoshop Elements packages - starts each time you connect an external image device to your PC (see here)

Adobe Synchronizer - installed along with Adobe Reader 8.x. "Synchronizer is a small application that runs in the background, providing synchronization of document reviews and Tracker subscriptions so that your data is available when you need it." See the link for more information

Added by the FLOOD.BA TROJAN!

Added by the ADCLICKER TROJAN!

Automatic updater for Adobe software - run manually

Downloader of Korean origin, detected as ADOD.28672

Spyware installed by Net2Phone, Limewire, Cydoor, Grokster, KaZaa, etc

AdBlaster adware

After Dark for Windows. Screen saver creation program produced before screen savers became integrated into Win95

AdRoar adware updater

ADS Adware Remover - not recommended, see here

"AdsCleaner is a powerful ad blocking software designed to stop ads (block banners ad, kill popup), guard your online privacy"

Part of Iomega's Active Disk - allows software applications to be run directly from an Iomega Zip? disk. Required if you wish the applications to launch on insertion of a disk

AdsGone - pop-up stopper

Associated with an Integrated Telecom Express (ITeX) ADSL driver installation. What does it do and is it required?

ADSS is part of Access Denied security and privacy software (Access Denied Security Server) that monitors power status and provides some other services for Screen Guard. Important to keep its running while using Access Denied

Adlogix adware variant

Adlogix adware variant

WindUpdates AdStatus Service adware

AdSubtract blocks ads, cookies, pop-up windows, animations, music, and more. Can be disabled from within AdSubtract. Available via Start -> Programs. Now superseeded by Trend Micro AntiSpyware

Detected by Kaspersky as the STARTPAGE.AW TROJAN!

Detected by Kaspersky as the VB.KC WORM!

Windupdates Adware

Related to Cisco Aironet wireless products. What does it do and is it required?

Adult content dialler and hijacker

Adult content dialler

Adult content dialler

Part of Iomega's Active Disk - allows software applications to be run directly from an Iomega Zip? disk. Required if you wish the applications to launch on insertion of a disk

Added by a variant of the RBOT WORM!

Advanced Spyware Remover anti spyware tool

Added by a variant of the RBOT WORM!

Checks when you install a new version of a Norton product that you have uninstalled all previous versions. Serves as a reminder if you forget

MediaAdVantage adware

Added by the NETDEVIL.12 WORM!

Checks when you install a new version of a Norton product that you have uninstalled all previous versions. Serves as a reminder if you forget

Advertising Killer - popup stopper

Added by a variant of the CRYPTER.C TROJAN!

Adware Agent popup blocker

Adware Spy adware remover - not recommended, see here

Adware program, previously not recommended (see here). It has now been delisted, so make sure you have the latest version

AdwareDelete adware remover - not recommended, see here

Ad-Ware Pro rogue security software - not recommended, see here

AntiTrojan Pro rogue security software - not recommended. Variant of Ad-Ware Pro

AdwareRemover2007 spyware remover - not recommended, see here

IBM High Rate Wireless LAN Adapter driver. Is it required?

Audio Applications Launcher for the Philips Acoustic Edge soundcard

Added by the RANDON-AO WORM!

Altiris Agent transmits information about your machine for the purpose of asset management and deployment

Altiris Express NS Client Manager software. Is it required?

IBM Aptiva keyboard customizer - enables certain special buttons on keyboard for CD operation, volume control, and few quickstart buttons. Keyboard will work without it but you lose the special functions

Cyberlink's Power VCR II 3.0 is a TV tuner recording utility. If you want to schedule recordings you'll need this, otherwise can be disabled. Available via Start -> Programs

Added by the DREF-V VIRUS!

Malware, detected by Kaspersky as AdWare.Monker.a. NOTE: do NOT confuse with the Microsoft Agent Server application of the same name as described here - the legitimate file will always be located in the WindowsMsagent folder

For Agfa digital cameras connected via USB. Enables Windows to access the contents of the memory stick (while the stick's still on the camera) via a virtual drive

Added by the GAOBOT.SY WORM!

IBM AMR modem driver

Program from AudioGalaxy that lets you download some MP3s from their server. Available via Start -> Programs

Advanced Hide Folders - "is powerful file security program. It allows to hide folders or hide files. Advanced Hide Folders is very useful to keep your personal data away from others. Others will not know where your personal files exist and they will not be able to accidentally view, delete or modify them either"

Advanced Hide Folders - "is powerful file security program. It allows to hide folders or hide files. Advanced Hide Folders is very useful to keep your personal data away from others. Others will not know where your personal files exist and they will not be able to accidentally view, delete or modify them either"

AhnLab V3 antivirus updater - leave enabled unless you manually update on a regular basis

??

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

Part of AudioHQ for the Soundblaster Live!. Appears as though it makes the AudioHW toolbar drop down from the top of the desktop and isn't required

Added by the NACO.A WORM!

Added by the CERTIF-M TROJAN!

Part of the "Ai Suite" utility supplied with some Asus motherboards. "With AI Nap, users can instantly snooze your PC without terminating the tasks. System will continue operating at minimum power and noise when user is temporarily away"

ASUS DH Remote media portal launcher for their Digital Home range of motherboards that are designed for users to control the computer at a distance away, such as the M2N DH. "ASUS DH Remote is a convenient PC remote controller that gives users unprecedented control over their PCs from the comfort of their couches"

Another IE Popup Killer - pop-up stopper

AOL Instant Messenger. If connected to the internet, automatically runs up AIM. Convenience more than anything. Available via Start -> Programs

AIM plus - a free add-on to AOL's Instant Messenger for Windows from Big-O Software

AIM Logger - saves AIM (AOL Instant Messenger) conversations to log files. Can be started when you are using AIM

Added by the GUAP-F WORM!

Added by the BUDDY TROJAN!

AOL Instant Messenger - start it when you want to use it

AOL Instant Messenger - start it when you want to use it

Added by the AGOBOT.AEE WORM!

RapidBlaster variant (in a "Aimaol" folder in Program Files). Recommended you use RapidBlaster Killer to uninstall - see here

RapidBlaster variant (in a "Aimaol" folder in Program Files). Recommended you use RapidBlaster Killer to uninstall - see here

IMSufSentinel is a spy program which can record IM conversations, log keystrokes, record URLs visited, and take screenshots. If you didn't install this yourself remove it

AimingClick from AimingTech. Web searching tool. Available via Start -> Programs

AIM Pro - secure instant messaging, video conferencing, on-line meetings and desktop and file sharing

Version of the WildTangent on-line games installer that came with versions of AOL Instant Messenger. Note that WildTanget's privacy policy used to state that they also collect and share individuals information but this is no longer the case

USB interface for Aiptek Graphics Tablet (USB)

Related to "Prutect" malware from e2Give

Airport Base Station Agent utility for Apple's AirPort wi-fi basestations. "Wireless solution for home, school, and business. As it blankets your space with a blazing-fast, secure wireless network, it opens up a world of possibilities for home entertainment, backups, printing, and more"

AJC Active Backup from AJC Software - "Instantly backup files you change on your PC and keep multiple versions to undo"

"Active Keys is a powerful yet easy-to-use tool for creating and managing keyboard shortcuts for any system action"

Advertising Killer - popup stopper

Access Lock is a system-tray security utility you can use to secure your desktop when you are away from your computer

Palm alarm event reminder that coordinates what is on your Palm with settings on your desktop

Associated with SynTPEnh and SynTPLpr which are from Synaptics for touchpads on laptops. What does it do and is it required?

Scanner software, not required for scanner to work

RealTek related - Real-Time SPDIF-in Monitor for nVidia chipset - is it required in startup?

RealTek related - Real-Time SPDIF-in Monitor for nVidia chipset - is it required in startup?

ClickAlchemy adware

Installed with hardware drivers for a Realtek AC97 audio device. It's believed that Realtek uses this file in order to data about the customer. Some users report problems with their on-board sound if this is disabled - hence the "U" recommendation

Alcohol 120% - CD/DVD emulation/writing/copying software

Alcohol 120% - CD/DVD emulation/writing/copying software

Alcohol 120% is a powerful Windows application that makes it easy to create backups of DVDs* and CDs. In addition, the program lets you store your most used CDs as images on your computer, so you can call them up at the click of a button. This part automounts images disc images

RealTek High Definition audio driver related - detects new devices when plugged in, then pops up a dialog box. If everything works as expected you should be able to disable this one

Installed with hardware drivers for a Realtek AC97 audio device. It's believed that Realtek uses this file in order to gather data about the customer. Some users report problems with their on-board sound if this is disabled - hence the "U" recommendation

Added by the MAHA.F TROJAN!

Added by the OPASERV-A WORM!

Related to Alexa. Note - collects and stores information about the web pages you view, the data you enter in online forms and search programs and, with versions 5.0 and higher, the products you purchase online whilst using the toolbar. Although Alexa state's they do not attempt to analyze the data it may collect about you to determine who you are, some of your information collected by the software is personally identifiable. Please read the Privacy Policy. Not Recommended

Reported as the DELF.EB hijacker by Ewido Security Suite

AlphaCleaner is now a stealth install using exploits on unpatched systems. Seen alongside RazeSpyware

AlfaClock from AlfaSoft Research Labs - "enhances your taskbar clock (tray clock) with fully customizable clock display, alarms, time synchronization and more"

AlfaClock2 - tray/desktop clock and time synchronization software

??

Added by the STARTPAGE.K hijacker

Detected by Kaspersky as the VB.ATE TROJAN!

Added by the CWS-I TROJAN!

Related to Uli Integrated Drivers from Uli Electronics Inc

Screen-capture utility for Alias Sketchbook

ALi AC97 Sound driver

AllerCalc is an expression calculator which allows you to directly enter an expression to be evaluated. Can be started manually

All-Seeing_Eye security software - "monitors everything that takes place on your computer, and alerts the user as soon as anything suspicious or out-of-the-ordinary is happening, providing the user with alternatives for possible actions"

"allSnap is a small system tray app that makes all top level windows automatically align like they do in programs such as Winamp or Photoshop"

AlltoTray from DNTSoft - minimize any program to your System Tray

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

From McAfee VirusScan for logging scanning activities. In some cases, if left running it can cause CPU % usage to go between 5-95% or go to and stay at 100%. Disabling it impacts on the reported last scan date. It is reported to cause jerky graphics response in many games. As of version 6, this is a critical component of McAfee and disabling it can cause a PC to lock up

ALPass password manager

Touchpad software for laptop PC's. For instance it is found on the Panasonic and Sony Vaio machines and allows part of the touchpad to be used for document or Web-page scrolling. Required for proper functioning of the pointing software but not required for the laptop to work

Altec Lansing AMS speaker related. What does it do and is it required?

Alto Memory Booster from Alto Software - boost the computers performance via more intelligent and efficient memory management. MS MVPs (Most Valued Professional) recommend not using memory managers with Win98/SE/ME. See this article and make up your own mind

ALTools family of PC utilities

WeirdOnTheWeb adware

Symantec LiveUpdate scheduler for programs such as Norton AV or Internet Security

Notification reminder for Symantec's LiveUpdate. Leave enabled unless you manually run LiveUpdate on a regular basis

Aluria Software's spyware removal tool - we can't really recommend this product as Aluria have recently partnered with WhenU, the well known adware company, see here

Always On Top Maker - utilty to enable an application to always be displayed "on top" of others on the desktop

Related to HP and Compaq Desktop PCs. Read this article

Premium rate adult content dialler

AMD Dual-Core Optimizer - "can help improve some PC gaming video performance by compensating for those applications that bypass the Windows API for timing by directly using the RDTSC (Read Time Stamp Counter) instruction"

Puts AOL icon in System Tray (*.* denotes version if present). Connect to AOL via the desktop shortcut or Start -> Programs

Monitoring part of Eset's NOD32 virus-scanner

Tiny Personal Firewall

Part of the IBM ThinkVantage Productivity Center. "The Message Center sends automatic notification on ThinkVantage Technologies integrated with your system. Once you're online"

Added by a variant of the MAILBOT TROJAN!

aMSN Messenger is a multiplatform MSN messenger clone

Added by the BANKER-BNZ TROJAN!

Added by the SILLYFDC-BR WORM!

Anapod Explorer "is the most advanced Windows iPod software available, offering iPod management through full Windows Explorer integration under My Computer"

Genius Wizard Pen Tablet driver related. Is it required?

MS WebTV for Windows. Used to display TV on your PC via a compatible video card with in-built tuner (such as ATI All-In-Wonder). If you don't use it - uninstall it

Caere Pagekeeper text annotation server

Anonymity Gateway - privacy protection tool that conceals IP address preventing your surfing habits and your internet activity form being tracked by websites or Internet Service Providers

Anonymizer Total Net Shield - ID protection and privacy software

Anonymizer Spyware Killer - now Anti-Spyware

Another IE Popup Killer - pop-up stopper

AnswerTool - save your E-mail replies in AnswerTool, then reuse them again and again

Anti-Blaxx - bypass blacklistings from different copy protections bypassing methods like virtual CD or DVD drives

Anti-keylogger - protects against keylogger programs monitoring your keystrokes

Anti-Trojan Watch - trojan detector

Added by the BANCBAN-QJ TROJAN!

AntiMalwareGuard rogue spyware remover - not recommended, see here

AntiPopUp for IE - pop-up stopper

IE AntiVirus rogue security software - not recommended, see here

IE AntiVirus rogue security software - not recommended, see here

EAdwareKiller spyware remover, where *.* represents the version number - not recommended, see here

AntiSpyStorm misleading security software - not recommended, see here

AntiSpywareApp spyware remover - not recommended, see here

AntiSpywareBot spyware remover - not recommended, see here

AntiSpywareExpert rogue spyware remover - not recommended, see here

AntiSpywareMaster spyware remover - not recommended, see here

AntiSpywareShield spyware remover - not recommended, see here

AntiVerminser spyware remover - not recommended, see here

Added by a variant of the AGENT.KEU TROJAN!

AntiVir? PersonalEdition Classic - antivirus

Antivir64 rogue security software - not recommended, see here

AntiVirGear misleading security software, where *.* represents the version number - not recommended, see here

Added by the SINKIN TROJAN! Resets IE start page to realphx.com

Added by the BANKER-EHB TROJAN!

Antivirus 2008 rogue security software - not recommended, see here

Antivirus Master rogue security software - not recommended, see

Added by the RBOT-IF WORM!

Antivirus 2008 rogue security software - not recommended. Detected by Sophos as the FAKEAV-BK TROJAN!

Antivirus 2008 PRO rogue security software - not recommended. Detected by Sophos as the FAKEAV-AW TROJAN!

Antivirus-Golden misleading security software - not recommended, see here

Antivirus 2008 rogue security software - not recommended, see here

Added by the SPYBOT.KAI WORM!

AntivirusGold malware

AntiVirusPro misleading security software - not recommended, see here

AntiVirusPro misleading security software - not recommended, see here

Anti-Windows_Messenger is a small application that prevents Windows Messenger from remaining resident in memory

Added by the LODEAR.D TROJAN!

AnVir Task Manager - protects computer against viruses and manages running processes and startup files

AnVir Task Manager - protects computer against viruses and manages running processes and startup files

System Tray tool for ASUS video cards. If disabled you lose all the ASUS specific video card options in Control Panel -> Display Properties -> Advanced as well as the System Tray shortcuts toolbar

Any To-Do List "the ultimate software solution to keep yourself organized and reminded"

AnyDVD - descrambles DVD-Movies automatically in the background and the DVD appears unprotected and region code free. Also removes prohibited operations from the DVD such as skipping adverts - hence the "U" recommendation

AnyTime Organizer Deluxe from Individual Software Inc - "all the tools you need to organize your calendar, to-do list, and address book are combined in a familiar interface with hundreds of printable calendars, detailed expense reports, and a full range of programmable alarms"

AnyTime Organizer Deluxe from Individual Software Inc - "all the tools you need to organize your calendar, to-do list, and address book are combined in a familiar interface with hundreds of printable calendars, detailed expense reports, and a full range of programmable alarms"

AnyTime Organizer Deluxe from Individual Software Inc - "all the tools you need to organize your calendar, to-do list, and address book are combined in a familiar interface with hundreds of printable calendars, detailed expense reports, and a full range of programmable alarms"

System Tray application for AOpen soundcards. Can be run manually via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel

AOL's Active Virus Shield (by Kaspersky) - found in an AOLActive Virus Shield sub-directory

Added by the SPYBOTER.A TROJAN!

Added by the SDBOT-XE WORM!

AOL ISP software related. What does it do and is it required?

Added by the SDBOT-YT WORM! Note - this is not the popular AOL Instant Messenger utility

Added by the AGOBOT-FN WORM!

Added by unidentified malware. Note - there ia a lower case "L" between the A and M in the filename

Added by the KELVIR.AL WORM!

Added by the IRCBOT.N TROJAN!

Added by the SDBOT-ZF WORM!

Added by the SDBOT-ABJ WORM!

Added by the SDBOT-JF WORM!

Added by the AOLOPT TROJAN!

Added by an unidentified WORM or TROJAN!

AOL's spyware protection program

AOL's TopSpeed web acceleration technology supposedly helps to make web browsing faster. Most important for those users who still access AOL via dial-up

AOL Connectivity Service - starts an automatic function that restores the connection should you lose it while online. Negates having to go through the procedure of signing back on manually

AOL Connectivity Service - starts an automatic function that restores the connection should you lose it while online. Negates having to go through the procedure of signing back on manually

AOL ISP software related, file located in a "AOL Computer Check-Up" folder. What does it do and is it required?

AOL ISP software dialer - can be activated through a desktop shortcut

Run on Gateway Astra computers, and maybe a few others. Designed to repair a bad registry key in Gateway computers that would not allow AOL to run correctly. Not seen much any more and should only run once

Unidentified malware - see here

AOL ISP related. What does it do and is it required?

Added by the KRAIMER.12 TROJAN!

Added by a variant of the IRCBOT TROJAN!

Installed along with iWon Prize Machine. Based upon their privacy statement this can be regarded as spyware

System Tray application for AOpen soundcards. Can be run manually via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel

Part of the APC UPS software loaded with the BACK-UPS CS 350 unit. Required to monitor the APC unit in case of power failure

PacerD Media/Pacimedia.com adware

CoolWebSearch/HomeSearch adware - for examples, see this log

CoolWebSearch/HomeSearch adware - for examples, see this log

Added by the IRCBOT-B TROJAN!

Added by the TIBSER.A downloader TROJAN!

Added by a variant of the LAMEBOT TROJAN!

Sage Software's ACT! The application pre-loader (apl.exe) is a self contained executable that pre-loads the necessary .NET framework and ACT! 2005 assemblies. This pre-loading of assemblies enhances ACT! startup, view load and dialog load times in some areas of the application

Intel AnyPoint Wireless II Home Network related. Now discontinued. What does it do and is it required?

Touchpad software for laptop PC's. For instance it is found on the Panasonic and Sony Vaio machines and allows part of the touchpad to be used for document or Web-page scrolling. Required for proper functioning of the pointing software but not required for the laptop to work

CoolWebSearch/HomeSearch adware - for examples, see this log

Added by the CARGAO WORM!

Loads the Confimax add-in for popular E-mail programs to confirm E-mails have been sent and received

Added by the AGENT-BC TROJAN!

From WinPatrol PLUS by BillP Studios - "This file installs with iTunes and is used when syncing your iPhone, iTouch, iPod, etc." See here for more information

Added by the CHECKOUT WORM! See here

Application launcher from the Sony Ericsson PC Suite for their mobile phones

Added by the ULPM.FX TROJAN!

Added by the CHECKOUT WORM! See here

Added by the LINKBOT.M WORM!

Detected by PCTools as the IRCBOT.BJJ TROJAN! See here

Detected by PCTools as the IRCBOT.BJM TROJAN! See here

Added by a variant of the IRCBOT TROJAN!

AppPlus - "menu bar or tray launcher that docks to your desktop, floats or sits in your System Tray. Create graphic/text-based buttons that launch any number of programs, Websites, e-mail addresses or folders (which open in the AppPlus Menu System)"

Part of Panda Antivirus. Required to enable permanent virus protection

Part of Panda Antivirus. Required to enable permanent virus protection

Wheel support for an Alps mouse

ScreenScenes "Aquatica Water Worlds" screensaver. The freeware version comes with GAIN branded ads (pop-ups and others). ScreenScenes do however offer you the option of doing away with the ads by purchasing the screensaver for a whopping $30. Please note that Claria Corporation no longer support GAIN-Supported software - see here

Added by the AGENT.BG WORM!

Aqua Dock - "free program that allows you to have an ?OS X? style, nice animated launchbar / taskbar on your screen that reacts to your mouse when you mouse over it. Users can customize the look of each item on the dock and set various animation options for when the mouse is over an item on the dock. It is very easy to configure"

Added by the SDBOT-YC WORM!

ArabLionZ Drive - part of ArabLionZ XP Tools. What does it do and is it required?

Part of the ArcaVir antivirus suite from Polish company Arcabit. What does this part do?

Arcade Rockstar (now Gamevance) - free arcade games and prize tournaments. The program itself is clean, but the TOS and privacy statement say that you agree to allow the program to track/report your surfing and put popup advertising on your computer

Adware - detected by Kaspersky as the CENTIM.A TROJAN!

Ardakey keystroke logger/monitoring program - remove unless you installed it yourself!

"Ares is a free open source file sharing program that enables users to share any digital file including images, audio, video, software, documents, etc"

"Ares is a free open source file sharing program that enables users to share any digital file including images, audio, video, software, documents, etc"

Argentum Backup - a small backup program that lets you easily back up your documents and folders

Added by the ARITIM WORM!

Related to Armor2net personal firewall (possibly contains or is related to an anti-spyware product known as ArmorWall, which is a spyware remover - not recommended, see here

Added by the NUWAR.JQ WORM!

Advanced Registry Optimizer - "scan, identify, clean and repair errors in your Windows registry with a single click". Reminder that states that you are in trial mode

Related to HP and Compaq Desktop PCs. Read this article

Artera Turbo Internet Accelerator - "surf faster, boost download speed". Only required if you find it helps improve your performance

AsdPlug premium rate adult content dialer variant

AsdPlug premium rate adult content dialer variant

Aluria Software's spyware removal tool - we can't really recommend this product as Aluria have recently partnered with WhenU, the well known adware company, see here and here

Part of Avast antivirus

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

Ashlt adware

Part of Avast! anti-virus software - E-mail scanner

Added by the BANCOS-CU TROJAN!

Active Security Monitor from AOL - helps you determine how vulnerable your PC is to computer viruses, spyware and other dangers and learn what steps you can take to improve your protection

Added by the AGOBOT-KG WORM!

System Tray application for Aureal Vortex based soundcards. Can be run manually via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel

System recovery software supplied with some Acer notebook PCs. Similar to GoBack and the restore program in WinXP, allowing you to restore a PC back to a working state with minimal re-entry

Added by the VB.ATZ TROJAN!

CnsMin (Chinese Keywords) hijacker related

Added by the TROJANDOWNLOADER.WIN32.VB.AH VIRUS!

Added by the VB.AH TROJAN!

AutoStarter parasite

ASUS TweakEnable - restores manually changed settings for ASUS based video cards such as overclocking. Only required if you use non-standard settings

Added by the VB.AH TROJAN!

Voyetra Audio Station - part of Voyetra's Ultimate MP3 & CD Manager. MP3 and digital music jukebox/organizer

Checks for updates to Quicken on a system reboot

ASUS Live Update utility for their motherboards

ASUS video card fan/thermal monitor - only required if you overclock your card or live in a hot area

Restores manually changed settings for ASUS based video cards such as overclocking. Only required if you use non-standard settings

Asus tweaking utility - for fine tuning the settings of your ASUS display card

MLS Pulse - real estate software. Keeps the home buyer/seller continually informed on the status of his/her local/regional real estate market

Adult content dialler

Anti-Trojan Watch - trojan detector

Added by the AGOBOT-SL WORM!

AMT Status Message from Intel. Users can manage this, read the article. See here for more information on Intel AMT

Athan - an application that calculates and reminds the five daily Islamic prayer times for anywhere in the world

Added by the IRCBOT-TL WORM!

Utility meant for future use of the ATI TV WONDER USB 2.0 video driver and can be disabled

Added by the BDOOR-AFH TROJAN!

Added by the RBOT-FOV WORM!

Added by the RBOT-GAS WORM!

Program that checks the motherboard chipset and determines which GART driver bundle to install on ATI video cards. If you have one, once installed it shouldn't be needed

Added by the AGOBOT-OG WORM!

Driver for the ATI REMOTE WONDER? RF remote control for ATI's All-In-Wonder graphic cards and other products. Required if you use it

ATI Remote Wonder? - PC wireless remote control driver. Required if you use it

Component that remains resident in memory and automatically launches the ATI VIDEO PLAYER at a user selected time and date. Delete the shortcut in the Start -> Programs -> Startup folder as well. Functions could re-enable the program to load at start-up and re-introduce the shortcut. Try it and see

System Tray access and key-combo shortcuts to common display functions on ATI video cards. Can be run from Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display

System Tray access and key-combo shortcuts to common display functions on ATI video cards. Can be run from Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display

Added by the RBOT-FWL WORM!

Added by the SDBOT.UR WORM!

For some ATI video cards. Probably used to access features and may not be required - for example the ATI Radeon works fine without it

Added by the BACKDOOR-CPC TROJAN!

Added by the DLOADR-BBW TROJAN!

System Tray icon to access ATI graphics card settings and the Hydravision Desktop Manager

Added by the RBOT-XP WORM!

This utility adds the ATI tab in the advanced display properties (gives the option for TV out). Do not uncheck if there is TV out on the video card

This utility adds the ATI tab in the advanced display properties (gives the option for TV out). Do not uncheck if there is TV out on the video card

This utility adds the ATI tab in the advanced display properties (gives the option for TV out). Do not uncheck if there is TV out on the video card

This utility adds the ATI tab in the advanced display properties (gives the option for TV out). Do not uncheck if there is TV out on the video card

This utility adds the ATI tab in the advanced display properties (gives the option for TV out). Do not uncheck if there is TV out on the video card

This utility adds the ATI tab in the advanced display properties (gives the option for TV out). Do not uncheck if there is TV out on the video card

Added by the RBOT-VZ WORM!

Program that checks the motherboard chipset and determines which GART driver bundle to install on ATI video cards. If you have one, once installed it shouldn't be needed

System Tray access and key-combo shortcuts to common display functions on ATI video cards. Can be run from Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display

System Tray access and key-combo shortcuts to common display functions on ATI video cards. Can be run from Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display

System Tray access and key-combo shortcuts to common display functions on ATI video cards. Can be run from Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display

System Tray icon to access ATI graphics card settings and the Hydravision Desktop Manager

Added by the TACTSLAY.U TROJAN!

Added by the SMALL-ED TROJAN!

ATI External Event Utility EXE Module. This task can comsume lots of CPU resources on some computers, but it can help with graphics card problems. Leave enabled unless it consumes too many CPU resources

ATI Polling Program - part of the ATI graphics driver e.g. on some Fujitsu-Siemens Notebooks

ATI External Event Utility EXE Module. This task can comsume lots of CPU resources on some computers, but it can help with graphics card problems. Leave enabled unless it consumes too many CPU resources

Control panel for the ATI series of video cards allowing access to such features as display resolution, colour depth, etc. Available via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display. Some users may need it if they have optimised their settings

Control panel for the ATI series of video cards allowing access to such features as display resolution, colour depth, etc. Available via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display. Some users may need it if they have optimised their settings

Control panel for the ATI series of video cards allowing access to such features as display resolution, colour depth, etc. Available via Start → Settings → Control Panel → Display. Some users may need it if they have optimised their settings

Control panel for the ATI series of video cards allowing access to such features as display resolution, colour depth, etc. Available via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display. Some users may need it if they have optimised their settings

Control panel for the ATI series of video cards allowing access to such features as display resolution, colour depth, etc. Available via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display. Some users may need it if they have optimised their settings

Control panel for the ATI series of video cards allowing access to such features as display resolution, colour depth, etc. Available via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display. Some users may need it if they have optimised their settings

Control panel for the ATI series of video cards allowing access to such features as display resolution, colour depth, etc. Available via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display. Some users may need it if they have optimised their settings

Added by the COSIAM-A TROJAN!

Used for hardware DVD decoding on ATI video cards supporting this feature. Not required unless you regularly play DVD's

ATI's "SMARTGART", which is included with the Catalyst™ drivers. When the system boots, it runs a couple of bus tests & tries to apply the most stable settings

Added by the ROAMER-A TROJAN!

ATI Tray Tools - allows quick access to ATI graphics card settings

ATI Tray Tools - allows quick access to ATI graphics card settings

Added by the DEBESKI.A TROJAN!

Added by the RBOT-ABX WORM!

Added by the SMALL.AOS TROJAN!

Premium rate adult content dialler

ATI Remote Wonder? - PC wireless remote control driver. Required if you use it

CoolWebSearch/HomeSearch adware - for examples, see this log

CoolWebSearch/HomeSearch adware - for examples, see this log

Added by the MMS.A WORM!

Loads the ATnotes program for virtual sticky notes for your desktop. Available via Start -> Programs

Added by the KATOMIK-A WORM!

Added by the KATOMIK-A WORM!

Atomic Clock Sync - synchronizes your computer's time with the NIST time server

Atomica runs from the System Tray and allows the user to find out more about a word or phrase on any screen by pointing at it with the mouse and clicking button one while holding down the Alt key

AtomicTime - utility that synchronizes your PC clock to an atomic clock

New feature of Norton Internet Security (NIS) and Norton Personal Firewall (NPF) 3.0 is the Alert Tracker, an instant notification feature. The Alert Tracker displays information about events as they happen. This way, when a rule has been triggered or an access to the Internet made, you know about it immediately rather than finding out about it when you check your logs or notice that the NIS icon indicates a security alert

Active Tray is a utility which lets you configure the system tray. You can also create your own tray icons

DeskTopScout keystroke logger/monitoring program - remove unless you installed it yourself!

Additional item added to start-ups after AT&T took over the now bankrupt Excite@home high-speed internet service. Included for automatically downloading and installing updates. Leave it unless you plan to regularly run it to check for updates

Aveo Attune automated helpdesk software - adware/spyware

Aveo Attune automated helpdesk software - adware/spyware

Aveo Attune automated helpdesk software - adware/spyware

Aveo Attune automated helpdesk software - adware/spyware

Aveo Attune automated helpdesk software - adware/spyware

aTuner - tweak tool for GeForce based graphics cards

USB interface for Aiptek Graphics Tablet (USB)

Au Agent from Zilab Software. Win2K/NT enhancement tool. Allows you to run applications under any security context without closing the whole logon session to process a new logon

Added by the BEAGLE.B WORM!

Adaptec USB CardBus Safe-Eject - driver for the Adaptec USB 2.0 CardBus which provides USB 2.0 ports for laptop users via a PCMCIA card slot

Added by the GEMA TROJAN!

Added by the GEMA TROJAN!

Added by the RANCK-FL TROJAN!

Added by the VB.ATE WORM!

Added by a variant of the CRYPTER.C TROJAN!

ADeck.exe is a system tray application for VIA's sound cards which offers quick access to a number of sound card related items

Added by the CRYPTER-C TROJAN!

For Creative Soundblaster Live! series soundcards. System tray application for SB Live! functions. Available via Start -> Programs

Added by the BANKER-EHK TROJAN!

System Tray application installed with the drivers for Creative Labs SoundBlaster Live! Can be run from Start -> Programs

Added by a variant of the CRYPTER.C TROJAN!

For Aureal based 3D soundcards. A3D sound features won't work with this disabled

Added by the AUTOUPDER TROJAN!

Added by an unidentified VIRUS, WORM or TROJAN!

If you disable the HP VIEW toolbar in IE and rearrange the toolbars on a reboot they will be back as they were before if this is left enabled

Added by an unididentified WORM or TROJAN!

Connect buttons on the keyboard for internet direct access, etc. on HP computers

Preloads some libraries that are used by AutoCAD in order to make the software load faster

Autoclik is a Windows utility "that allows you to perform all mouse activity with absolutely no clicking"

For Creative Soundblaster Live! series soundcards. Specify for any audio application what audio preset to automatically associate with currently active speaker output. Available via AudioHQ

Added by the SEMAPI-A WORM!

AproposMedia adware

Envolo/AproposMedia adware updater

Task scheduler for Unisyn Automate 4 task automation/macro running software. Available via a desktop shortcut or Start -> Programs

"Automate is the Leading Software for Automation of front and back-office business processes.It provides all the tools necessary to completely automate business processes, regardless of their complexity"

AutoMate 6 for automating repetitive tasks

Added by the IRCBOT-AAM TROJAN!

Added by the RBOT-AGL WORM!

Autoroute SMTP - "automatic switching between SMTP servers depending on what network you are currently working in." You need to have two Internet service providers

Added by the AUTOM-B WORM!

AutoSizer - utility that automatically maximizes windows when they're opened

AutoSpell - spell checker (version 6.*)

AutoSpell - spell checker

Winguardian surveillance software. Uninstall this software unless you put it there yourself

If you disable the HP VIEW toolbar in IE and rearrange the toolbars on a reboot they will be back as they were before if this is left enabled

On HP PC's. Unclear what purpose it serves - but there's a known issue with Internet Explorer Toolbar settings not being saved with it enabled

Raxco Software Auto Update utility."Used to keep your software up-to-date"

Added by an unidentified VIRUS, WORM or TROJAN! - found in a folder of the same name

Tinybar variant

PeopleonPage foistware

Detected by Kaspersky as the AGENT.FQ TROJAN!

Added by the BAGLEDI-AA TROJAN!

Added by the ZINS TROJAN!

Added by the AIZU WORM!

System Tray application for Aureal Vortex based soundcards. Can be run manually via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel

AvaFind file search utility

Added by the MSNVB-D WORM!

Part of Avast! anti-virus software

Part of Avast! anti-virus software

Part of Avast! anti-virus software

Part of Avast! anti-virus software

Added by an unidentified TROJAN!

From McAfee VirusScan up to version 4.x and Dr Solomon's VirusScan. Used to schedule regular scans. If you don't have scans scheduled you don't need it

Added by the DELF.LJ TROJAN!

Aveo Attune automated helpdesk software - adware/spyware

AVG Anti-Virus 7.0 Control Center. Allows you to manage and control all AVG Anti-Virus components, settings and updates

AVG antivirus related

AVG Anti-Virus 7.0 Control Center. Allows you to manage and control all AVG Anti-Virus components, settings and updates

AVG Anti-Virus 7.0 Email Cleaner. Scans incoming and outgoing email for viruses

AVG Anti-Virus 7.0 related

System Tray access to AVG internet security software

AVG antivirus related

AVG anti-virus control center. Also enables scheduled tests, Outlook E-mail plug-in and automatic updates

Part of AntiVir? PersonalEdition Classic antivirus

Firewall part of the AVG Plus Firewall Edition

AVG Anti-Virus 7.0 related

AntiVir? PersonalEdition Classic antivirus. System Tray icon and control program

AVG antivirus background monitoring

AntiVir? PersonalEdition Classic antivirus. Background task which scans files transparently

AVG anti-virus control center. Also enables scheduled tests, Outlook E-mail plug-in and automatic updates

AVG Anti-Virus 7.0 Email Cleaner. Scans incoming and outgoing email for viruses

AVG Anti-Virus 7.0 Registry Cleaner - for checking the registry for virus additions and other security problems

Added by the GEMA TROJAN!

Added by the GEMA TROJAN!

Command Antivirus related

eXtendia AVK AntiVirus email checker

GData AntiVirusKit Anti-virus

System Tray access to AntiVirenKit InternetSecurity from G DATA Software AG

Part of Avast! anti-virus software - E-mail scanner

Part of the ArcaVir antivirus suite from Polish company Arcabit. What does this part do and is it required?

Kaspersky anti-virus and AOL's Active Virus Shield (by Kaspersky) - found in either a Kaspersky or AOL sub-directory

Detected by Kaspersky as the ALPHABET.B TROJAN!

Added by the AGOBOT.FS WORM!

Added by the LEGMIR-ARK TROJAN!

Kaspersky Labs anti-virus

Kaspersky anti-virus

Added by the STARTPAGE-ID TROJAN! Note - this is not the popular Kaspersky antivirus and this file is located in the WINDOWSpchealthUploadLBConfig directory

Detected by Kaspersky as the ONLINEGAMES.CPV TROJAN! See here

Added by the MYDOOM.AF WORM!

Added by the ONLINE-GEN TROJAN!

AntiVir? PersonalEdition Classic - antivirus

Added by the SASSER WORM!

Added by the SASSER.B or SASSER.C WORMS!

Added by the SASSER.G WORM!

Related to Samsung AV Station - instant playback of music, photos, videos

Added by the AGENT.AM TROJAN! Note - example names include "XviD", "Winamp Remote", "Windows Media Player" and "Futuremark"

Command Antivirus tray icon

Added by the RBOT.CNI TROJAN!

PRISM Status Tray Applet - but what is it for and is it required?

AntiVir? PersonalEdition Classic - updater

Bullguard or BitDefender antivirus

Anti-virus part of BitDefender virus scanner/firewall

Diagnosis tool that monitors DSL connections, installed alongside DSL drivers from AVM Fritz's range of modem products

Part of the IBM ThinkVantage Productivity Center. "The Away Manager application allows you preselect and run routine tasks to maintain your system's performance"

Part of Symantec's pcAnywhere remote PC management software. Provides an automatic startup of the client PC in host mode in conjuction with a host-definition file, so system administrators can access the machine. Can cause a 10% reduction in speed and not recommended

Part of Lavasoft Ad-aware Plus - realtime spyware-monitor watching your memory and registry for spyware that tries to install or change your system

F-Secure Anti-Spyware

AllWallpapers Lite desktop wallpaper changer

Reportedly related to a USB Wifi Adapter - is it required at startup?

AwxDTools related - a Windows Shell-Extension for the Daemon-Tools. It extends the context-menu of ImageFiles supported by Daemon-Tools (i.e.: *.cue, *.iso, *.ccd ...)

AdvancedXPFixer rogue security software - not recommended, see here

Added by an unidentified TROJAN - see here

Related to Realtek_Azalia Mixer Selector

Aztech Labs modem driver

Added by the AGENT-DP TROJAN!

Added by the EXEMAS-B TROJAN!

Added by the RBOT-RP WORM!

Main program of BitDefender virus scanner/firewall

Detected by Symantec as the SILLYFDC WORM! See here

BrowserAid/BrowserPal foistware

Added by the VB-VT TROJAN where * = 5,6 or 7!

Part of Bullguard antivirus. Leave enabled unless you manually update virus definitions

Part of Bullguard antivirus

Unicenter Asset Management is a solution for proactively managing IT assets in a business environment. It provides full-featured asset tracking capabilities through automated discovery, hardware inventory, network inventory, software inventory, configuration management, software usage monitoring, license management and extensive cross-platform reporting

Added by the RBOT.DMW TROJAN!

Webroot Cache & Cookie Washer - cleaning browser tracks, including cache, cookies, history, mail trash, drop-down address bar, auto-complete forms and downloaded program files for IE, Netscape and AOL

Moleculesoft Cache, Cookie & Windows Cleaner. No longer supported but available for free

Added by the ANPES WORM!

Added by the SDBOT-XM TROJAN!

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

ConfigSafe - lets you identify changes to the registry, INI files, System asset files, system hardware, network connections, and operating system versions -- provides a restore function. Your choice

Added by the SDBOT-VP WORM!

Added by the LOADCFG or SDBOT TROJANS!

Added by the AGOBOT.MX WORM!

CoolWebSearch parasite variant

Part of Creative's BlasterControl

Auto-updater for Creative Labs software

Added by the NACO.A WORM!

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

D-Link wireless PCI adapter related

D-Link wireless PCI adapter related

D-Link Airplus Wireless Router driver

D-Link AirPlus G wireless configuration and monitoring utility

D-Link AirPlus XtremeG wireless configuration utility

Vritual plant from here - this version is an Azalea, there are others so the filename may be different

Digisoft AntiDialer

Adobe Download Manager - "can prevent you from having to start from the beginning should your download process be interrupted, and it offers a level of service not possible

Doctor Antivirus 2008 rogue security software - not recommended, see here

Iomega HotBurn - CD-RW burning software

Iomega HotBurn - CD-RW burning software

Added by freewebs.com hijacker!

Adult content dialler - see here

??

Updates for Wave Systems Corp. Embassy Trust Suite - "delivers advanced levels of security to the client PC using the TPM security chip found on most enterprise PCs today"

Intel AnyPoint Wireless II Home Network related. Now discontinued. What does it do and is it required?

ERUNT backup utility - when added to the user's startup folder automatically backs up the registry each time the system boots, resulting in numerous backups that can be restored

MicroWorld eScan antivirus

MicroWorld eScan antivirus scheduler

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

With Excite Assistant, you can access a wide variety of online information, including email, news, and stock quotes without having to have a browser window open

ExtraFilm Photo Assistant

Nortel Networks Contivity Extranet Switching Software

Part of Avaya's Contact Center Express - "a multi-channel, high-volume software solution from Avaya designed specifically for the intelligent routing and computer telephony integration (CTI) needs of medium-sized contact centers"

Added by the KELVIR.DD WORM!

ABBYY FineReader OCR software - version 7

RapidBlaster variant (in a "foo1" folder in Program Files). Recommended you use RapidBlaster Killer to uninstall - see here

RapidBlaster variant (in a "foo1" folder in Program Files). Recommended you use RapidBlaster Killer to uninstall - see here

Calendar reminder part of Broderbund's American Greetings? CreataCard?

Detected by F-Prot as W32/Downloader-Sml-based

Added by the "Herman Agent" remote access TROJAN!

IE toolbar taking you to Lop.com. If the exe is running, end it and remove the "Stupidmore" directory from C:Program Files

Manages a component essential to the operation of most current AOL software. If you remove it from startup it will load when IE is launched, increasing launching time

Quoted from AOL Beta Team, "Manages a component essential to the operation of most current AOL software, client or not. You should be able to remove it from Startup (it'll just load when Explorer is launched, which will extend load time a bit), but do leave it on your system".

Autostart executable for the old multiplayer game HP Jetspeed

Wild Tangent demo games that come with some HP computers. Unchecking it can prevent the games from running occasionally. Note that WildTanget's privacy policy used to state that they also collect and share individuals information but this is no longer the case

Wild Tangent demo games that come with some HP computers. Unchecking it can prevent the games from running occasionally. Note that WildTanget's privacy policy used to state that they also collect and share individuals information but this is no longer the case

Added by the NETSKY.L WORM!

Added by the NACO.A WORM!

Added by the RBOT-AVC WORM!

Added by the RBOT-AYN WORM!

Added by the IRCBOT.R WORM!

Added by the SLAPER.E TROJAN!

LANDesk Management Suite software component

Added by a variant of the RBOT WORM!

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

Added with SoundBlaster Live! or Audigy soundcards for headphone autodetection

Kaspersky anti-virus and AOL's Active Virus Shield (by Kaspersky) - found in either a Kaspersky or AOL sub-directory

Added by the BRONTK-CV WORM!

Added by the RANDEX.AW WORM!

"AIM Lite is a reference application for testing some new client technology developed here at AOL?, with the goal of being a simple, fun, light IM client"

Acer Launch tool utility on laptops

Added by the RBOT-SO WORM! Note - this is not the popular Ad-aware spware/adware removal tool

Part of Lavasoft Ad-aware Plus - realtime spyware-monitor watching your memory and registry for spyware that tries to install or change your system

"Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" for the Lexmark X63 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Button manager for features such as scan, scan to E-mail, copy, etc

Button monitor for the Lexmark X63 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Works in conjunction with the "Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" button manager whose filename is "AcBtnMgr_X63.exe"

"Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" for the Lexmark X73 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Button manager for features such as scan, scan to E-mail, copy, etc

Button monitor for the Lexmark X73 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Works in conjunction with the "Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" button manager whose filename is "AcBtnMgr_X73.exe"

"Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" for the Lexmark X83 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Button manager for features such as scan, scan to E-mail, copy, etc

Button monitor for the Lexmark X83 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Works in conjunction with the "Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" button manager whose filename is "AcBtnMgr_X83.exe"

"Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" for the Lexmark X84-X85 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Button manager for features such as scan, scan to E-mail, copy, etc

Button monitor for the Lexmark X84-X85 all-in-one multifunction printer/copier/scanner. Works in conjunction with the "Lexmark Scan & Copy Control Program" button manager whose filename is "AcBtnMgr_X84-X85.exe"

Automatic update utility for LG Notebooks

Added by the KWBOT.R WORM! Note that the "l" is a lower case "L" and not an upper case "I"

After Dark for Windows - screen saver program. Popular before screen savers were integrated into Win95

Status monitor for an NEC SuperScript printer

Asset Insight from Tangram - asset managing software. Required if an organisation is running a centrally administered asset management system

Added by the ATAK.B WORM!

Added by the CABRO TROJAN! Not to be confused with the valid LoadPowerProfile entry where the command is Rundll32.exe powrprof.dll

Added by the RBOT-YP WORM!

LooknMeet dating service

Part of SYSagent - small utility for retrieving all the hardware and software information required by anyone administering a machine and/or the network it's a part of

Added by the RBOT-GCV WORM! Not to be confused with AOL's Active Virus Shield (by Kaspersky)

From McAfee VirusScan version 5.x. Runs VirusScan System Tray (Vsstat.exe), WebScanX (Webscanx.exe), VirusScan System Scan (Vshwin32.exe) and VirusScan Console (Avconsol.exe) under one application

Part of MS Visual InterDev, Media Manager is an easy media file management system that works in conjunction with Windows Explorer. The Media Manager Indexer is a program that indexes all the information about your media files and puts it into a database

Added by the RULAND.A WORM!

Added by an unidentified WORM or TROJAN!

Application Launcher, MS Office application. USR (US Robotics) modem auto updater. May be a sub-set of Attune

Part of the Freeserve Connection Kit - changes the dial-up for Freeserve AnyTime if access problems are encountered

Added by the RBOT-GRY WORM! Note - this is not the popular AOL Instant Messenger utility

Added by a variant of the SPYBOT WORM!

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

MS WebTV for Windows. Used to display TV on your PC via a compatible video card with in-built tuner (such as ATI All-In-Wonder). If you don't use it - uninstall it

Added by a variant of the SPYBOT WORM!

Added by the BROPIA.R WORM!

Detected by Kaspersky as the IRCBOT.BSK TROJAN!

Added by the SDBOT-CZO WORM!

Added by the RBOT-GCY TROJAN!

Added by a variant of the IRCBOT TROJAN! See here

Added by the SDBOT-AEA WORM!

Added by the OPTXPRO.132 TROJAN!

Added by the GAOBOT.SY WORM!

Added by a variant of the RBOT WORM!

Added by the RBOT-RQ WORM!

Added by a variant of the RBOT WORM!

Added by the SOBER WORM!

Added by the KILLPAR-B TROJAN!

Added by the SDBOT.BCO WORM!

eyeQ - improve your reading speed

Miramar PC/Mac networking software

Part of MS Money 2002. Available via Start -> Programs

Part of the Apache Web Server package. Useful only if you're running such a server on your PC. Available via Start -> Programs

Added by the RBOT-AIK WORM!

Detected by Kaspersky as the IRCBOT.AZ BACKDOOR! See here

MediaTickets adware variant

Spyware web downloader

Adult content dialler - see here

MS-Connect dialler/hijacker

Added by the ACHI-A TROJAN!

Added by the NETSKY.O WORM!

Added by the FRAMAR TROJAN!

Added by the FRANGO TROJAN!

Added by the VOLAC or VOLAC.DR TROJANS!

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

CoolWebSearch parasite variant

Added by the SDBOT-ZD WORM!

Added by the AIMBOT-BC TROJAN!

Added by a variant of the SDBOT WORM!

Added by the NETSKY.J WORM!

Added by the AGOBOT.ALK WORM!

Added by the RBOT.DHN WORM!

Added by the SDBOT-DJG WORM!

Added by a variant of the SPYBOT WORM!

PurityScan/Clickspring adware

Added by a variant of the RBOT WORM!

Added by the RBOT.AWY WORM!

Reported by Ewido Security Suite as WeirWeb adware

Altiris Express Notification Server Install helper - monitors integrity of the installation

Added by the XU TROJAN!

Added by the WOOTBOT.GE WORM!

Added by the SDBOT-CWO WORM!

Added by the RBOT-GMM WORM!

Added by the RBOT.FPW WORM!

Added by the RBOT-GDD WORM!

??

Added by the STARTPAGE-ID TROJAN!

PurityScan/Clickspring adware

MSI PC Alert III - allows you to view your system and cpu temperature, fan rpm and more. Only required if you overclock

Ascentive Performance Center - not recommended, see here and here

Added by the RBOT-DDH WORM!

Popuppers adware, also detected as the LOWZONE-AA TROJAN!

AntiSpy firewall - "program designed to combat against various types of intrusion and monitoring programs currently in use or presently being developed worldwide"

Unidentified adware

Added by the MOVINGMOUSE.475811 TROJAN!