In normal mode, no programs will run, while my antivirus software in Safe Mode found the Zlob Trojan, among other and lesser malware (tracking cookies, etc.); however, even with removal I still can't get anything working in normal mode. I have a HJT file at the ready, should anyone want me to post it.
D2Max, Go to the link below and scroll down to line 12 (left column) and click on "EXE (lnk and regfile) Fix for Windows XP" to download a reg file fix. Save the REG File to your hard disk. Double click it and answer yes to the import prompt. http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_...
If you can't run the file do the following:
Press CTRL-ALT-DEL and open Task Manager. Once there, click File, then hold down the CTRL key and click New Task (Run). This will open a Command Prompt window. Enter REGEDIT.EXE and press Enter. Once regedit is open click File>Import and locate that reg file fix, hilite it and click Open.
Tufenuf
That proved moderately helpful, as I can now run some programs in normal mode now. I still can't effectively use the internet, but it's a start. Would upgrading to Service Pack 3 help me in restoring normal function at this point?
Update: Without having to install SP3, I managed to clear a few other things, and now am fully up and running! I still would not mind an opinion as to whether or not the upgrade is worth it on this old machine, but I think I'll look elsewhere for that answer. Thanks again!