So basically my computer has become somewhat ghetto. I'm not sure if it's a virus, spyware, or what but it's contracted the flu.

What I'm asking is two things basically:

1) Can someone link me some sort of Adaware program? Something to clean up spyware and what not. I currently have Norton Anti Virus, but it picked up nothing.

2) I've never reformatted my computer. What steps do I need to take? Also would I need a windows XP Cd / key, because I don't know where to find mine.

As you can tell I'm slightly retarded when it comes to computer, and my method of googling has become much more difficult when I keep getting linked to stupid websites.

1st
you should find a large thumb drive to backup all important data to. another computer works well for this as long as they are hooked up to each other. if you don't know how to share files let me know and i can go into greater detail. if you want to try and clean up your computer if it has a virus let me tell you now, if you can backup your data it is much easier to format the hard drive and start over. so start copying your files to a different computer.

as far as keeping the computer clean when it is running its best i recommend these programs:

(must keep it updated and scanning your computer regularly.)
(free version works well, just scan your computer every now and again)
(an impressive free program that can actively protect your computer just remember to keep it updated).

2nd
i can provide whatever disks you could want or need for windows XP however you are going to need to get your own key. if you purchased one then i suggest you start digging. i do not recommend pirating windows as it will prevent you from getting updates from www.windowsupdate.com. not having this feature will quickly turn your well tuned computer into a pile of slowness really quickly. when you have a genuine key of your own then i can help you clean off your computer and start fresh and updated with SP3 (the latest windows XP service pack).

Thanks for the response Patrick! My computers used to be networked together but for some reason the link no longer seems to exist, so I'm not quite sure what the deal is. Most of my information on this computer can easily be wiped and I won't lose sleep over it. It's old documents and mostly random pictures that are on my MySpace.

As for my windows CD key the way my computer came (as I remember it) with no Windows CD, however the key is on a lil' sticker on the back of my computer. I'm not exactly sure which version I'm using but I'll check later!