What is causing random numbered .exe programs to run on my computer?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the issue of random numbered .exe programs, such as 361921.exe, running on a user's computer, which are attempting to contact a DNS server. The user suspects this problem arose after a recent Windows update. It is established that these processes may be indicative of a virus, as they replicate and change names to avoid detection. The recommended solution includes scanning the computer in safe mode using tools like Spybot and Ad-Aware, alongside updating the antivirus software before performing the scans.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Windows operating system processes
  • Familiarity with virus scanning tools, specifically Norton, Spybot, and Ad-Aware
  • Knowledge of safe mode operation in Windows
  • Basic concepts of DNS server functionality
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to perform a safe mode scan in Windows
  • Learn about the functionality and risks of temporary files in Windows
  • Investigate methods for identifying and removing persistent malware
  • Explore the implications of recent Windows updates on system stability
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for computer users experiencing unexplained executable processes, IT professionals diagnosing malware issues, and anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of virus detection and removal techniques.

Squall
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Hi i am having a little bit of a problem for some strange reason my computer is running random numbered .exe programs example: 361921.exe and each one is trying to contact the DNS server. Can anyone tell me what this is or how to fix it.

I think it had something to do with the latest windows update that i downloaded yesterday. If anyone has a clue about what might be happening i will appreciate any advice
 
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I have at least 30 of such processes running at one time
 
Squall said:
Hi i am having a little bit of a problem for some strange reason my computer is running random numbered .exe programs example: 361921.exe and each one is trying to contact the DNS server. Can anyone tell me what this is or how to fix it.

I think it had something to do with the latest windows update that i downloaded yesterday. If anyone has a clue about what might be happening i will appreciate any advice
It might be a virus. Some replicate and try to circumvent identification by constantly changing their name.

Did the virus scanner show anything?
 
yes Norton says it is a low risk trying to contact DNS server but when i scanned my pc it came up clean. I found all of the programs in the temp files folder. I am going to attempt to delete them
 
You can't delete the process exe file while the process is running.
 
Scan your pc in safe mode with spybot and ad-aware, then your virus program. Do not forget to update them before going to the safe mode.
 

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