What is the wininit.ini file?

[Sniktbub]

Hello,

I am just curious why JRT detected the file and what it is, exactly.

I'm attaching some very old logs from 2018 and 2019 --- JRT detected it in the file system and deleted it successfully both times.

As extras, I'm also attaching yesterday's MBAM scan (custom) and the most recent JRT scan showing no signs of infection.

2018.txt 2019.txt 17062020custom.txt 15062020JRT.txt

[nukecad]

WinInit.ini is a 'temporary' file, which is run once when you boot and then it should be automatically deleted.

It contains 'updated' system information.
eg. Program updates that require a reboot/restart may write information to WinInit.ini to be executed on the reboot.
Other programs (eg. Avast AV) may use it to delete their old log files when you boot.

As it runs automatically on boot then it could be a security concern if a bad guy sneaks something malicious in there.

PS. JRT is a discontinued product, AdwCcleaner replaced it a couple of years ago.

 

Edited June 18, 2020 by nukecad

[Sniktbub]

Thank you.

Yes, I realize JRT has been discontinued.

I still like to use it every once in a while. AdwCleaner is not a good alternative in my case, as I'm running on Windows XP and, as far as I know, the last compatible version is 6.047.