XP PRO SP1 - no upgrade to SP2 or SP3

[jakkwb]

This is a legit install of XP Pro on Gateway PC with XP Pro key.

NooNoo - I did find some leftover Symantec processes running. After killing them and pulling the network cable, I tried SP3 again - less than 30 processes running - Same thing. Tried in safe mode, same thing. Tried SP2 just for curiousity - same thing.

Getting old.

[MobilePCPhysician]

Can we re-visit the spyware/malware route? What have you used to check this system???

[jakkwb]

I have tried the activeX suggestions from the earlier post. No change.

As far as spyware - it was delivered to me for a good cleaning. Ran all the obvious auto tools - Spybot, Adaware, MalwareBytes, SuperantiSpyware, Housecall AV online scan, Spyware Doctor, SpySweeper, Kaspersky AV online scan.

Hijackthis log looks clean (to me).

[NooNoo]

Run a-squared and rootkit revealer.

[futuretech]

Have you tried running sfc /scannow with an sp1 cd and ensure that nothing has changed the default windows protected files?
Have you looked at the permissions on the windows folder to ensure the proper permissions are set on the folders to allow the computer access to make changes?
Some infected computers have system permissions removed from the different folders.
There is also a key in the registry that gets changed in the policy key that denies service packs.
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/949377

[shamus]

Try uninstalling IE7 from a command prompt?
C:\Windows\ie7\spuninst\spuninst.exe