I am  problem with Inspiron Mini 10 running Windows XP and McAfee AV programs.

Was using pre-installed McAfee security program.  Having problems, so I attempted install of Total Protection Service, as I have multi-PC subscription.  Here is history:

 

1.      Had problem with pre-installed McAfee.  Not updating and appeared to be inhibiting wireless access.

2.      Downloaded and ran McAfee Virtual Technician.  Indicated register problems and fixed.

3.      Problems continued.  Ran MVT again, several times, each time indicating registry problems.

4.      Decided to remove existing McAfee and install McAfee Total Protection Service via download with existing 3-PC subscription.

5.      Removed old program using Windows program removal tool.

6.      Download would not complete as indicated conflicting program (virus scan).

7.      Downloaded and ran McAfee Consumer Product Removal Tool, Virus cleanup program; still not same message after several attempts.

8.      Contacted McAfee support and was provided “fix.bat” file to run.

9.      Ran fix.bat.  That eliminated conflicting program and download and install appeared to be successful.

10.  However, on re-boot, PC would stall at Windows XP logo with bar and moving blue squares screen before log-in screen.

11.  Powered off PC and restarted; Blue screen indicating improper Windows shut down appeared with options to start normally, start in safe mode or start with last good settings.

12.  Would not reboot normally (same as 10).

13.  Rebooted with last good settings.  Virus program screens appear normal, but was not functional.  Ran MVT and showed many registry problems and missing “services” and files.

14.  Removed program as above and repeated at least 4 times.  Same result each time.

15.  Contacted McAfee support.  After two very long sessions, McAfee said hard drive had problems per CHKDSK report; told to contact hardware vendor.

16.  Ran CHKDSK with /F switch on drive C through Windows.

17.  Contacted Dell.  Long session.  With Dell interactive support, ran diagnostics and completely reinstalled OS; Dell said drive and OS OK.  Dell then "recommended" TPS or McAfee "Virus Scan Plus"

18.  Attempted re-install of McAfee TPS.  Same result as above.

19.  Compeletely removed and attempted re-install with same results as above.

20.  Took unit to my local PC tech.  They replicated problem the removed TPS.  Their opinion was the TPS was "too much".  Said PC and drive OK. 

21.  Attempted install of "Virus Scan Plus"; same result - install appears good but PC will hang at Windows XP page before log in.

22.  Have now installed Microsoft Security Essentials.  Works

23.  What gives, Dell???