For years I've heard people (including Symantec's site) mention running a virus scan in Safe Mode, so I figure it's about time for me to ask this question. LOL

I was wondering if it is necessary to run every virus scan I perform in Safe mode or is it only for certain situations?

If it's the latter, then what situations would they be?

Thanks.

I use the safe mode only if there is a problem. The safe mode only has the adsolute minimum programs running, with all the other components disabled. This allows a file to be deleted/cleaned that would otherwise be identified as "in use". Some programs like Adaware and Etrsut will identify a problem, and then direct you to enter the safe mode to allow it to clean/delete the pest.

But i want to add, that even in safe mode many files still are un-accesable(winxp/NT...)I hope they are for virusses and worms too!

Precisely.... When ever your running an OS.... Files are always going to be in use. And Evidentally we know that in 'Safe Mode' Windows loads as least Processes/and Drivers as possible. ..... Files that Cant be accessed whether in Safe mode or not, would be those in the _Restore Folder...... Believe me, I've had plenty of problems with the _Restore folder.. Since It is 'Locked' by windows. Viruses, and worms, and trojans, hide in that Folder, which I find to be a real pain in the @$$. Ive tried unlocking it, but I always run into problems.

Thanks for the help.

So, there would no detection problems in "normal" Windows mode, only possible deletion problems?

I believe that is mostly the case but not an absolute. I run Safe Mode scans 1/mo just for checkups (both A/V & spybot & AdAware)

and anytime weird stuff is starting or get "problem removing" msg.

Also run free online A/V scan every month or 2 just as a 2nd opinion to my updated primary A/V. But that's just me.