If I do run>msconfig>startup it shows that ptsnoop starts on startup. Is this some spy thing? Can I uncheck it?

It is a program that assigns a port address to your PCTel modem. It is not a spy-ware program. HOWEVER, myself and many others have experienced shut down errors, lock-ups, and other strange problems while having this program on our computer. After deleting this program and replacing the modem, all problems were solved. You be the judge.

What is PTSnoop? The PTSnoop program is used by the modem to interface with your computer. The program is not actually "snooping", but is interfacing with your computer to allow the modem to function. It is also used to support modem voice functionality, if your particular modem supports that feature. PTSnoop is not a malicious program and is not gathering any data about you. You can remove the PTSnoop application, but every time you reboot your computer it will reinstall itself. You can read this for yourself at: http://www.pctel.com/consumer_faq.htm Look at the very bottom of the web page.

Ok heres the deal, yeah its for your modem, Hey i tell you this much, ok modems used to be hardware based but now a days there software based if you remove that file it will cause the transfer part of the modem to over heat and burn up. Very bad not fixable, it controls the processing chip in your modem, however there are a few people out there that like to replace the file your supposed to have with a virus ptsnoop.exe So i would reccomend that you run virus scanner. Dont remove the file or you accept the deadly fate of destroying a perfectly good modem. Trust me i know, little mistakes that i have made in the past on old computers LOL. Good luck, and no its not spyware. If your worried about people spying on you get Norton firewall and it blocks out stuff like that. Otherwise live with files running in the background. If in doubt Go NORTON. Email me if you have any more questions at Justin_Christian_2001@hotmail.com Sincerly, Justin E. Christian

Here's a bit of info on ptsnoop ('homepage' link) Oddly enough, they make no mention of flaming modems.... maybe Justin is a friend of fred6008's? Seems to have studied at the same places. *g*