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Obviously, we cannot control other software applications running on your computer. All too often, most don't even know what programs are on our computers. For this reason, I created the information below to help you understand what utility software might be running on your computer and the impact these programs can have on the installation of Windows applications.

Norton System Tools and Norton Antivirus most frequently cause problems with installing Windows applications. Teatimer is a newcomer that we have seen cause problems with Windows installations. These programs are certainly necessary and designed to keep your computer secure. However, they can block the installation of files as well as updating the Windows registry when new software programs are installed. If a Windows application cannot install files into the Windows System folder and update the Windows registry, it cannot work properly. We highly encourage you to enable your virus checker and system tools at anytime you are browsing the internet and downloading files. It is a wise idea, though, to disable these tools when installing legitimate Windows programs.

So, how do you know what utility software is running on your computer. There are three main ways.

First, take a look at the icons in your Windows System Tray - where your Windows clock is located. These icons indicate programs that are currently running. If you have a virus checker running, you will likely see an icon here for it. You may also be able to disable it from this icon.













Second, type Ctrl-Alt-Del on your keyboard to open the Windows Task Manager. Click on the Processes tab. You will see a list of currently running applications.













Third, go to the Start button in the lower left corner and choose Run. Type MSCONFIG in the Open box and press OK. Click on the Start Up tab to see a list of programs that start up each time you reboot your computer. Y0u may be surprised at the number of programs you have running. Some of the programs listed will be a bit cryptic. Others will be obvious. Here, you can uncheck boxes to disable programs from starting up when you reboot your computer. This is a good place to look if you are experiencing problems and do not know what program might be the culprit. You can always enable the program by running MSCONFIG again. If you do not recognize a program you see running on your computer, try Googling the name of the application. You will likely discover what the application does.