CNET Editors' review
If persistent spyware is bogging down your computer, you might need HijackThis. The tiny program examines vulnerable or suspect parts of your system, such as browser helper objects and certain types of Registry keys. Pressing the Scan button generates a log of dozens of items, most of which are just customizations. Don't check off an item and hit the Fix checked button unless you're sure it's malware. Clicking Info on selected item tells you why the entry was flagged as suspicious, but not whether it's actually malware. To find that out, search the Web for that item's name or go straight to a forum, such as SpywareInfo or Computer Cops. Saving the log creates a text document you can post to these forums.
The latest version adds powerful tools to the Config window. The process manager and hosts file editor help you excise virulent infections. The unique ADS Spy tool scans for alternate data streams, which some browser hijackers use to hide from spyware removers. The program still installs into whatever directory in which you unzip the file, which can make it hard to locate. HijackThis is a serious tool for any user who needs to root out a serious infestation, but wield it with caution.
Watch the CNET video review of Trend Micro HijackThis:
Publisher's Description
From Trend Micro:
HijackThis lists the contents of key areas of the Registry and hard drive--areas that are used by both legitimate programmers and hijackers. The program is continually updated to detect and remove new hijacks. It does not target specific programs and URLs, only the methods used by hijackers to force you onto their sites. As a result, false positives are imminent, and unless you're sure about what you're doing, you always should consult with knowledgable folks before deleting anything.
What's new in this version: .
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All versions:
4.2 starsout of 706 votes
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Current version:
4.2 starsout of 301 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"It is not advisable to use this program-too many risks-"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
Pros
None that I know of.
Cons
This program can remove items from the registry that are part of Windows damaging your computer.
Summary
This program claims to scan deeper than anti-virus scans. Which I never use as I don't believe in anti-virus software. And this program claims to remove malware that other software cannot find. It scans and then you choose if you want to remove what it finds including registry entries and files. But it is just too risky as it does not tell you should do. It just gives you the results and then you decide if or not to remove it. But this removes important Windows files and registry keys claiming that they are infected. And this could make your computer unusable,resulting in a reinstall of Windows. So DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT USING THIS SOFTWARE. If you want to scan for malware and viruses,use the Windows Defender and Malicious Software Removal Tool-MRT. That is provided and bundled with Windows 7,and Windows Vista. And Windows XP users can also get MRT and Windows defender from the Microsoft website. These two tools will scan for and remove viruses, spy ware and malware. And they are bundled with Windows 7 and Windows Vista and can be used on Windows XP as well. These are the genuine tools for Windows and the only ones you need to use. Not this unknown and dangerous software-Hijack This. which you should not use. Andrea Borman.
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"I always rely on Hijack This, without a doubt, it is the best"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
Pros
Hijack This is very up front about what it sees as a threat or if it is in question of anything you have going on your computer. It gives results right now not tomorrow. You do have to know what you are doing but I find it very helpful when you have things that you didn't ask for on your machine. If you can afford a donation, they can use it but if you can't afford it then Trend Micro is kind enough to let you use it anyway and that is appreciated by those of us who just don't have the dollars at this time and they don't require you to accept junk for the privilege of using the program.
Thank you,
DeeJae
Cons
Sometimes I the program doesn't recognize what I think is not questionable but at least they let you decide for yourself.
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"Essential when you call on "experts" for help with a problem."
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
Pros
It quickly extracts the details required for expert analysis of computer system in the event of a problem, and allows transmission by email - usually on a forum - in order for someone who understands such things to look for stuff which shouldnt be there.
All this without the need for special skills on the part of the operator (as long as the unskilled party doesnt attempt to fix anything without guidance !)
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"great and useful!"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
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"Good for removing Malware and errors in the pc."
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
Pros
It not just remove malware and malware registry entries, but also it remove error in the system by deleting junk registry and some junk files.
Cons
not for beginners. The person must know many things in his pc.
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"can some one help?"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
Pros
free. List everything. I need help to find a place to submit my logfile from hijackthis, to check out what i need to delete?
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"great working software"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
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"Great program for intermediate to advanced users....."
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
Pros
This program is a great tool for anyone seeking to find any potential flaws in their system that could lead to spyware. The information provided is thorough enough that anyone with more than a beginner's knowledge should be able to effectively operate the program.
Cons
Can be a little over-aggressive with it's findings, and since it does not look for spyware instead searching for potential security flaws it may possibly list vital system folders as deletable files. Delete with caution.
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"i could not use it"
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
Pros
can not
Cons
massed up my p c
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"4/5 stars..."
Version: Trend Micro HijackThis 1.99.1
Pros
everything OK...with Trend.i suppose.
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