Safe Mode? - HP Compaq dx2300

[ezkim0x]

I can't figure out how to get into safe mode.

PC: HP Compaq dx2300 Microtower PC

it's my aunts computer i'm trying to fix for her.. and she installed one of those AntiVirus trick viruses.. I found a way to enable safe mode when you load up windows.. but the problem is that virus just closes out msconfig when I try to do this:

http://h30499.www3.hp.com/t5/Business-PCs-Deskpro-EVO/dx2300-Safe-Mode/m-p/1150049#M81085

which is the whole point i'm trying to get into safe mode so I can remove this with malware bytes.

I've tried pressing F8-F12 , ESC, DEL, ..I got into it 1 time I believe by unplugging the power cord when the computer was on.. and when I powered back on it said the computer wasn't shut down correctly and asked if I wanted to load windows in safe mode which I did.. but I guess I didn't choose (networking) version when doing this.. because the network wouldn't work.. so I wasn't able to update malware bytes.

Any Ideas?

 

[BoomerD]

Did you just push "F8" once, or did you push the key repeatedly once the boot screen appears?
Sometimes you have to be persistent...I had one old Gateway that getting to Safe Mode often was like an exercise in "one-key speed typing." As soon as the boot screen comes on, start pushing F8.

I suppose it's possible that the virus has affected the system to a point where your only option might be to just reformat and reinstall the OS...but I presume she has documents/pictures that she'd prefer not to lose.

 

[Motorheader]

At system power up hold left shift key - that should get you into safe mode without menu prompt.

 

[ezkim0x]

Yeah I sit there and press F8 like 3 times a second. haha.

oddly enough the left shift key worked. started up a scan before I came to work. so hopefully should get it fixed tonight.

thanks.

 

[BoomerD]

Yeah I sit there and press F8 like 3 times a second. haha.

oddly enough the left shift key worked. started up a scan before I came to work. so hopefully should get it fixed tonight.

thanks.

Good. Glad to hear you're getting the problem fixed.

Those kinds of issues can be a PITA to get sorted out.