Windows recovery installation leaves computer in shambles

[Tadao]

Before you format, make sure you have your windows key. If someone put your comp together for you, they might not have given it to you. The is an easy way to get it off your hard drive if need be.

[Archduke Tips]

I would recommend wiping the computer whenever it becomes infected with a virus. If I were to write a virus, one of its first tasks would be to destroy your virus scanner software in a way so that it looked like it still worked.

You can keep pretty much any file that isn't intended to run or install such as music, videos, pictures, etc. If you keep install files then you risk re-infecting your computer.

I would also recommend Avira AntiVir. They have a free version of their virus scanner that just pops up an add every time you update. It has been MUCH better for me than AVG.