Cannot Download SpyHunter or Browse the Internet?
If you're having issues like malware blocking the SpyHunter installer or 'Open With' box shows every time you try to run SpyHunter, simply click the alternate download link below:
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Table of Contents
Malware Blocking Internet?
Try alternate download method: Download SpyHunter on an uninfected computer, transfer the SpyHunter installation file to a removable drive (i.e. USB flash drive, CD or DVD), and then load it on the computer that has the malware infection.
Are you experiencing any of the following malware symptoms on your computer?
- Cannot access certain websites.
- Cannot download/install any anti-virus/anti-spyware software.
- Cannot open existing security software.
- Cannot boot into Safe Mode.
- Cannot open Task Manager, Command Prompt, and/or RegEdit.
- Notice suspicious icons on the Desktop.
- C: and D: drives have disappeared.
- The password of the default administrator account has been changed.
- When searching the Internet using Google, Bing, or Yahoo, search results are hijacked and redirected to random adware search results rather than the intended relevant results.
- Security settings in the Internet Explorer web browser have been compromised and as a result pop-ups with fake alerts windows are displayed on the computer and the browser's default homepage points to an unknown website.
- Certain administrator privileges from the default administrator account have been taken away.
- Constantly redirected to 404 error pages on the web browser.
- Repeated, frightening pop-up alerts that allege the computer is infected with spyware the on the Windows taskbar.
Some malware infections such as trojans, worms, and rootkits are known for blocking certain security related software and websites. Just like the Koobface and Conficker worm, malware can be designed to limit your ability to obtain software that can remove malicious files from the computer. Hackers purposely design their malware applications to perform these functions so they can roam free on your computer.
Does 'Open With' Dialog Box Appear Instead of SpyHunter?
Malware can use the 'Open With' function to prevent computers users from installing or opening any executable program including security software. Learn more how to deal with this problem.
If you have copied SpyHunter installation file to a removable drive but it cannot load onto your infected computer or you don't have a second computer readily available, try the following methods to fix your PC:
Use an Alternate Web Browser Application
You can try downloading SpyHunter by using an alternate web browser. Sometimes malware may only block a certain web browser application. Some of the recommended browsers include Firefox, Chrome, Safari and Opera.
Start Windows in Safe Mode
Starting Windows in Safe Mode with Networking is also another way to evade any type of block that malware has put on your system.
Turn off DNS Caching
DNS caching is a method on your system for retrieving an IP address from a site when it is connected to the Internet. Malware can slow or limit DNS queries or processes such as the installation of certain applications. Here's how to turn off DNS Caching:
How to turn off DNS Caching in Windows XP
- Start menu > Run > type in cmd > click OK.
- Type net stop dnscache > press Enter.
- Type Exit after seeing the message "The DNS Client service was stopped successfully".
How to turn off DNS Caching in Windows Vista or Windows 7
- Start menu > type in cmd in the search box.
- Right-click on cmd and then click on "Run as administrator".
- Click Continue in the "User Account Control prompt".
Check for Hosts File Hijacking
Your Hosts file (file used to map hostnames to IP address) may have been altered by a malware infection. If this is the case, you may not be able to access certain websites or your browser could be instructed to redirect to malicious websites. Usually restoring your Hosts file back to its default configuration using Microsoft's automated tool will resolve this issue. Novice computer users who are unsure on editing Hosts file will find this tool helpful.
To find and make changes to the Hosts file, go to the Windows Folder path C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc. If you do not see the Hosts file, select to show hidden files and folders by going to "Folder Options Control Panel" and uncheck "hide protected operating system files". To modify the Hosts file in Windows Vista or Windows 7, click "Start", click "All Programs", click "Accessories", right-click "Notepad", click "Run as administrator", open "hosts" file, and make the necessary changes.
Are you still having problems downloading SpyHunter, browsing the web or performing key functions on your computer? Post your experience here. If you're a SpyHunter customer, you can submit a customer support ticket via SpyHunter.