Hi Here's what I would like to achieve. Boot to dos and set up tcp/ip network connectivity using autoexec.bat Ping various workstations and put the results >> in a file. Use the if string1==string2 command to verify the results of the file. Depending on the result (Machine on or off)map a drive and run a commad line virus scanner to check the drive. Query the logfile output by the scan task and depending on the result use "net send user" or similar command to alert me on an NT box the result of a clean scan. Then go onto the next pc. I don't know how to set up and initiate dos tcp/ip connections I can ping the workstations and place the results in a .txt file. I cannot work out how to verify the contents of the .txt file. I can map the drive and set the scan task going. I don't know how to send a flash message to my self on the result of the scan. Before someone says why don't you just install av software. we have but want to use a different product as a backup and as 2 av progs on the same machine can cause problems this is the next best thing to having scans with 2 different products. Thanks in advance. Lee