Remove malware from your Windows PC (2024)

FAQs

How do I remove malware from my Windows computer? ›

Go to the Microsoft Safety Scanner website. Click the Download Now button, and then click Run. Follow the instructions to scan your computer and help remove the rogue security software.

Malware will generally be removed by resetting your system to factory default settings. Some malware can infiltrate your operating system or firmware, however, so it's wise to thoroughly scan your device and be wary of attack vectors that could lead to reinfection.

Scan your device for malware.

Run a malware or security Delete anything it identifies as a problem. You may have to restart your device for the changes to take effect. Run your scan again to make sure everything is clear. If the scan shows there are no more issues, you've likely removed the malware.

In the Windows Security window, in the left pane, click Virus & threat protection, if applicable. In the right pane, under the Virus & threat protection settings section, click Manage settings. In the right pane, click the toggle button placed under the Real-time protection section to Off.

Microsoft Defender Antivirus is a powerful tool that finds and removes malware from your PC. Here's how to use it in Windows 10 or 11 to scan your PC. Important: Before you use Microsoft Defender Offline, make sure to save any open files and close apps and programs.

Still, a factory reset can be an effective strategy to use against many types of malware. However, it may not cure everything. For example, performing a factory reset can't remove hackers from your online accounts or destroy malware that has attached itself deeply in your device's hardware or system files.

How to completely wipe a PC? ›

Over the years, many programs accumulate, run in the background, and consume resources. By resetting your PC and reinstalling only the necessary programs, you can noticeably increase performance. This will result in fewer delays, faster loading times and overall better performance, both at work and when playing games.

Disconnect from the internet and enter Safe Mode. Open Task Manager (or Activity Monitor) to check your device for malicious applications. Turn on your antivirus and scan your computer for viruses or other malicious software. If any malware is found, quarantine or delete it.

Open your Windows Security settings. Select Virus & threat protection > Scan options. Select Microsoft Defender Antivirus (offline scan), and then select Scan now.

If you notice any or all these symptoms, your computer might have a virus and you should act: Suddenly slow computer performance, meaning it takes a noticeably longer time to start up or open programs. Problems unexpectedly shutting down or restarting. Missing files.