Hey all, hope this dosn't sound stupid, but is there any kind of virus that can install itself onto a computer, and then cause all computers on the LAN to lose connection? Let me explain...

I have a Dell Latitude laptop, dual-booted with Windows 2000, and Windows XP. When booted into 2000, the laptop, as well as all 2 other computers will be real slow while accessing shares. But after a while, all computers cannot ping the router. If the laptop is booted to XP, it still won't work unless the router is reset. But as long as the laptop stays in XP, the router will work correctly for days and days! I was just wondering if a virus could do something like this. On the laptop, I have virus protection under XP, but not under 2000 (my bad). The router I'm using is a Belkin F5D-7230-4. It is not connected to high speed internet. If someone could explain what might be happening, I would appreciate it.

I believe in the Big Bang. God said it, and BANG it happened!

Not a virus, but if you did not change the router's default password or user, it could be compromised and taken over buy a bad guy.

If the router is wireless, did you set it up to be secure. Otherwise you are sharing it with your neighbors.

You can get a free six month trial of F-Secure at this site;
http://www.f-secure.com/protectyourpc/

Ok, thanks. It still baffles me why my network has been behaving like this. I really wondered, because once in awhile, I will get a "Virus Detected" warning from my anti-virus software (while booted to XP).

No, my network isn't protected, but my Wi-Fi PPC cannot pick it up from the road. But I guess bad guys have really sneaky ways to hijack computers and networks.

Try scanning using your av program while in the safe mode, and then use the on-line scan from here;

http://www.kaspersky.com/scanforvirus.html

Ok, we'll try that. Thanks!

I believe in the Big Bang. God said it, and BANG it happened!