If you’ve noticed that your computer is sending out automated queries, this could be a sign of underlying software issues or malware infections. This guide will help you tackle these problems head-on, ensuring your system runs smoothly and securely. Please note, this guide focuses solely on resolving computer-based issues and not network-related problems.

Step 1: Install and Run Antivirus and Antimalware Programs

The first step in troubleshooting is to address the most likely culprits: viruses and malware.

Install Avast Antivirus: Start by downloading Avast Antivirus from its official website. Even the free version should help detect and remove any viruses.
Install Malwarebytes: Similarly, download the free version of Malwarebytes to eliminate any malware effectively.

Once installed, run full system scans with both applications. Consider performing a boot-time scan with Avast to tackle viruses that might be hidden or active when the operating system is running.

Step 2: Clean Your Browser

Often, browsers can be a gateway for malicious scripts that send automated queries. If you’re a Chrome user, try switching to Mozilla Firefox for troubleshooting purposes. If you’re already using Firefox, reset it to its original settings to eliminate any potential issues. Resume using your regular browser once the problem is resolved to determine if it was the source.

Step 3: Clean Registry Items

Proceed with caution in this step:

Open the Registry Editor by typing regedit in the Run dialog (accessed via the Start Menu or with Windows key + R).
Navigate to Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run.
Review the entries here, removing anything not related to essential software such as your antivirus or system utilities.
Repeat for the RunOnce folders located under both HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE and HKEY_CURRENT_USER.

Important: Ensure you back up the registry or create a system restore point before making any changes.

Step 4: Monitor and Manage Processes

Identifying suspicious processes can be tricky:

Open Task Manager and scrutinize the processes running on your system.
Look for any processes that don’t have a clear description or seem out of place.
Investigate any unknown process thoroughly before deciding to end it. Use online resources to determine if a process is legitimate.

Step 5: Manage Startup Programs

Using the Task Manager, navigate to the ‘Startup’ tab and disable any unfamiliar or unnecessary programs. This can prevent unwanted software from running automatically when your computer boots up.

Step 6: Clean Your Drive

Remove temporary files which could be executing unwanted tasks:

Type %temp% in the Run dialog box to open the temporary files folder.
Select all files (Ctrl + A) and delete them.
Go to This PC, right-click on your system drive (usually C:), select Properties, and then click Disk Cleanup.
Check all boxes except for Downloads and perform a system file cleanup.

Step 7: Uninstall Unnecessary Software

Review the list of installed applications and remove any that are no longer needed or that you don’t recognize:

Open Settings → Apps → Apps & Features.
Select the program you want to uninstall and click the Uninstall button.

How to Identify If Your PC is Still Sending Automated Queries

After following the steps above, monitor your system to ensure no further automated queries are being sent without your consent. Tools like Wireshark can help advanced users analyze network traffic more deeply, though this may require further technical expertise.