Hi, I have a problem "can't locate instal.log" file for magic iso. The file isnt in the program folder. I don't know what to do as i think this file is the cause of the trojan i have on my laptop. Cheers

Dani AI

Generated

Brief summary: an installer log called "instal.log" is normally a plain-text record that an installer writes while it runs — it is not an executable and cannot itself act as a trojan. If you cannot find such a log, common reasons are that the installer never created one, it used a different name (for example install.log or setup.log), or the file was removed by system cleanup or security software.

Where to look and how to search: enable viewing of hidden and system files in Folder Options, then search the likely locations: the program folder under Program Files, the per-user Temp folder (%USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Temp), C:\Windows\Temp, C:\Windows\Installer and %ProgramData%. A quick command from an elevated command prompt can locate similarly named files:

dir /s /b C:\*instal*.log

Validation and a post-clean checklist: verify the installer you used came from the official vendor and check the file digital signature via Properties > Digital Signatures. Inspect startup items, scheduled tasks and services (msconfig, Task Scheduler, services.msc or Autoruns) for persistence. Run full scans with up-to-date anti-malware tools, and then run System File Checker as administrator:

sfc /scannow

After cleaning, monitor for new suspicious processes, unexpected network activity, or recreated startup entries; change passwords if you suspect credentials were exposed.

Context for this thread: was correct that installer logs are typically harmless and a scan is appropriate, and reports the system was cleaned after using multiple scanners. If strange behavior continues despite these checks, use an offline rescue scanner or a clean OS image — persistent infections sometimes require an offline or professional removal.

Recommended Answers

All 3 Replies

Sorry i forgot to say i am running windows vista home premium

It is probably the log that some installer makes and refers to when installing software, also may be used by an uninstaller. If you are concerned about malware run a scan.

Thanks Gerbil, i've managed to get rid of the problem. I think it was a combination of spybot, malwarebytes and avast, but it seems to be sorted.
Thanks
pedro1888

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.