Is wipe and reinstall the ultimate solution.

[tw]

Originally Posted by Beest

Is there stuff that could have survived a simple reinstall like this, or has it really aggregated crap so fast?

Either "nuke 'n pave" it. Or cure the existing problem.

Malware can even hide in flash or USB drives. Restoring software from anything but the original program CDs may even restore the malware.

Meantime, a system is exposed until the long list of updates are downloaded and installed. This is not a significant threat, but another one.

Bottom line - yes. But most are not a significant threat. Better is to first identify why you have a problem – since it is almost as likely not due to malware. This is why only the better computer manufacturers provide comprehensive hardware diagnostics.