[dba-Tech] Windows ME Malware problem

Dear Group,

I helped a fellow with a Windows ME system analyze his virus difficulties. He has hundreds of infected files, including some essential Windows files (e.g., Explorer.exe). Since he has a dial-up connection we didn't download an anti-virus program since I was being paid for my time. He purchased McAfee and went ahead and scanned his system, finding this long list of problems. He told McAfee to go ahead and fix all the problems. Well, now his PC won't start because Explorer.exe has been quarantined. At least that's what he told me. I should have told him not to run McAfee until he had me on the horn.

I want to try to help this guy get his PC started again. He, of course, has no Windows ME disk, as such, but he does have a Restoration CD.

Is there a Safe Mode option in ME to allow system files to be restored without having to re-install Windows? Not that re-installing Windows would be such a bad thing. But he's concerned about his programs and data. Re-installing Windows shouldn't hurt his existing programs, but I'd like to be able to tell him what to do with some confidence that what I tell him won't screw things up.

Any ideas?

Sincerely,

Steve Erbach
Scientific Marketing
Neenah, WI
920-969-0504