I explained how to disable Windows auto-run behavior to protect yourself from inadvertently running malware that might exist on USB drives or other devices you insert into your PC.

Be aware, however, that careless Registry editing can make your system malfunction or even keep you from starting Windows.

Use care making changes to the Registry

Any tip that requires direct editing of the Registry (whether using the Registry Editor or merging a .reg script) should be approached with caution. The best insurance policy in these cases is to set a Windows “restore point” before experimenting with such advice. (more…)

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AutoRun starts Windows programs automatically
Every recent version of Windows has features known as AutoPlay and AutoRun. These functions are designed to launch applications automatically from a external device containing the necessary AutoRun information. This is what causes an installer window to pop up when you insert a software disc into your CD or DVD drive, for example, or makes a pop-up menu icon appear in the taskbar tray when you insert a USB flash drive. (In some cases, the action doesn’t occur until you double-click the flash drive icon in Windows Explorer.)

When a disc is inserted or a drive is connected to your system, Windows looks in the root directory of the new disc or drive for a file named autorun.inf. If found, Windows executes the instructions in that file. (more…)

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Like we have autoplay feature on CDs, it’s possible to autorun programs and applications from your removable USB flash drive, provided you use it on Windows XP SP2.

Here’s a quick guide on how to autorun portable applications from your USB drive. (more…)

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