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    Recently, I started getting messages that my operating window vista home premium edition is not the genuine one. As a result, my computer shuts down for restart every 5 minutes. The message is telling me to activate/install a new one. Also, I 've tried to use external harddrive to back up my files but to no avail. I do have two security system , firewall and McAfee security and other viruses have attempted to attack my computer in the past and I have them corrected. Any help before I loose my files!
    Lastly, what are my chances witha new operating system like windows 7
    Monday, February 1, 2010 7:23 PM

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    Hello Okezie,

      Windows Genuine Advantage does not have any functionality to make your PC restart.  If your computer is restarting every 5 minutes, it's not because of the Non-genuine messaging.  Most likely you have a virus or someother form of Malware that is causeing both the restarts and the Non-genuine messaging.

      Try booting into Safe Mode.  If you can, Safe Mode should allow you to backup your files to the removeable hard drive.  Once that is done, I recommend reinstalling Windows.

      If this is, in fact, Malware related, I am unsure if having Windows 7 would have made any difference.

    Sorry I couldn't be more help,
    Darin MS 


     
    • Marked as answer by Darin Smith MS Monday, February 1, 2010 11:21 PM
    Monday, February 1, 2010 11:21 PM