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How do i get rid of windows asking for this file on start up thanks john

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Windows reporting "cannot find winsock.scr" means something on startup is trying to run an .scr (screensaver/executable) file that is missing. That can come from a leftover startup value, a scheduled task, or malware that created then removed the file. correctly moved this to the security area; checking startup locations, locating any reference to that filename, and repairing the network stack are practical next steps.

Practical checklist:

  1. Boot into Safe Mode and search common folders (C:\Windows\System32 and program folders) for any winsock.scr file. Do not run unknown .scr files; treat them as executables.
  2. Use the Registry Editor (backup/export first) to search for "winsock.scr" and remove only the exact autorun entries found under Run / RunOnce keys (HKLM and HKCU) or Scheduled Tasks.
  3. Repair the Winsock/network catalog from an elevated command prompt, then reboot:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
shutdown -r -t 0
  1. Perform a full scan with up-to-date anti-malware and, if necessary, scan from clean boot media or a rescue environment. If the .scr belongs to a legitimate screensaver, reinstall that product rather than restoring unknown files.

Cautions: always export any registry keys before deletion and create a system restore point. Collect file path, size and hashes for suspicious files if further analysis is needed. This approach complements the earlier suggestions in the thread while avoiding reuse of any specific download links.

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Member Avatar for dlh6213

This is most likely a virus problem so has been moved to the appropriate forum.

Get Hijackthis from here:
http://www.merijn.org/files/hijackthis_sfx.exe

Close all browser windows, scan with hijackthis, save the log, copy and past the results here.

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