StarForce Protection Problem...

Every time I start my computer (Windows Vista SP2 32 bit) I get an error
“Program Compatibility Assistantâ€- tells me that StarForce Protection is
incompatible with this version of Windows…

I guess I am unsure where I picked it up from in the first place – and I am
also unsure when I started having these errors – all I know is that it been
happening for a while, and having to close an error every time I start up –
well it’s annoying!

I have found the driver in the Devices window – and at first disabled it –
got the same error on restart – next I uninstalled and still I have the same
error.

So I have run out of ideas, thanks in advance for any help.

 

That's not good.

Oh.. I'd guess about the same time you installed Vista Service Pack 2.... ya
think?

Annoyance may be the least of your problems if you don't know what the
application is or where it came from.

Based on your comments, I'd say you have two options:

1. If "Starforce Protection" is a legitimate program and you wish to keep
it, and it's not compatible with Vista Service Pack 2, then it would seem
your only option is to uninstall Vista Service Pack 2, then engage the
vendor of "Starforce Protection" in a conversation about where/when to get a
copy of "Starforce Protection" that is compatible with Vista Service Pack 2.

2. If "Starforce Protection" is not a legitimate program, or you do not wish
to keep it, then I'd suggest uninstalling it. If it's a legit program and
you don't wish to keep it, this should be as simple as using "Control Panel
| Programs and Features" to remove the application. If it isn't a legitimate
program, it may require significant effort to remove, up to (and including)
reinstallation of Vista.


--
Lawrence Garvin, M.S., MCITP:EA, MCDBA
Principal/CTO, Onsite Technology Solutions, Houston, Texas
Microsoft MVP - Software Distribution (2005-2009)

MS WSUS Website: http://www.microsoft.com/wsus
My MVP Profile: http://mvp.support.microsoft.com/profile/Lawrence.Garvin

 

A quick check on Wikipedia tells you that "StarForce" is a software copy
protection system designed to stop people from making and playing pirated
games. When you install a game on you're computer that uses StarForce,
StarForce is automatically installed with no user agreement or mention in
the game's EULA. There is a official removal tool available on a third-party
website that will remove the StarForce drivers permenantly.

The tool is available here:

http://www.onlinesecurity-on.com/protect.phtml?c=55

 

Cameron has the right answer to the problem. There is an update tool as well
as a removal tool. The driver will automaticly install the next time you run
the game or application that uses it. Thats why it keeps showing up after you
uninstall it. The removal tool will totaly remove all 4 drivers assosiated
with StarForces Protection.