FAQs
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.
How do I reset my computer to remove malware? ›
On Windows 10
- Click the Start button and select Settings.
- Go to Update & Security.
- Select Recovery, then click the Reset this PC link to get started.
- While there is an option to Keep My Files, you should click Remove Everything to perform a factory reset because malware could be embedded within these files.
Does factory reset remove malware in Windows 11? ›
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.
How do I find hidden malware on my computer? ›
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.
How do I clean my device from malware? ›
How Do I Completely Remove Malware from Android?
- Step 1: Immediately Turn Your Phone Off Before Performing Some Research. ...
- Step 2: Turn the Phone On in Safe Mode or Emergency Mode. ...
- Step 3: Go to Device Settings to Locate the Malicious App. ...
- Step 4: Uninstall the Infected Application. ...
- Step 5: Opt For A Factory Reset.
How do I remove anti-malware from Windows? ›
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.
How do I safely remove malware? ›
How to remove malware from a PC
- Step 1: Disconnect from the internet. ...
- Step 2: Enter safe mode. ...
- Step 3: Check your activity monitor for malicious applications. ...
- Step 4: Run a malware scanner. ...
- Step 5: Fix your web browser. ...
- Step 6: Clear your cache.
How to clean a PC from viruses? ›
How to get rid of a computer virus
- Step 1: Download and install a virus scanner. ...
- Step 2: Disconnect from internet. ...
- Step 3: Reboot your computer into safe mode. ...
- Step 4: Delete any temporary files. ...
- Step 5: Run a virus scan. ...
- Step 6: Delete or quarantine the virus. ...
- Step 7: Reboot your computer. ...
- Step 8: Change all your passwords.
Can a malware be deleted? ›
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.
Can malware survive a factory reset PC? ›
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 wipe your computer hard drive
- Go to “Settings.”
- Choose “System” on the left side menu.
- Click “Recovery.”
- Click “Reset PC.”
- Choose “Keep my files” (removes apps and settings but keeps your personal files) or “Remove everything” (removes apps, settings, and your personal files).
Is resetting a PC good? ›
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.
How to manually check PC for malware? ›
Run a quick scan in Windows Security
- Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security and then Virus & threat protection. Open Windows Security settings.
- Under Current threats, select Quick scan (or in early versions of Windows 10, under Threat history, select Scan now).
How do I check if my computer is infected with malware? ›
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.
How to remove viruses from Windows? ›
Here's how:
- Download and install a virus scanner.
- Turn off your internet.
- Restart your PC in safe mode.
- Delete any temporary files.
- Run the virus scanner.
- If the scanner finds a virus, delete or quarantine it.
- Restart your PC normally.
How do I scan my Windows computer for malware? ›
Open your Windows Security settings. Select Virus & threat protection > Scan options. Select Microsoft Defender Antivirus (offline scan), and then select Scan now.
How do you know if your PC has malware? ›
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.
How do I remove malware from my computer without antivirus? ›
Delete and Remove Virus Without Antivirus
- End Running Virus-Related Processes in Task Manager.
- Disable Unknown or Strange Process from Windows Startup.
- Turn Windows Defender Firewall On.
- Remove Virus with Virus & Threat Protection in Windows Defender.
- Disconnect the Internet from Your PC.
What is the best free malware and spyware removal program? ›
Should I Go for Free or Paid Malware Software?
- Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. Malwarebytes is one of the most popular anti-malware tools that won't cost you a dime. ...
- Avast Free Antivirus. The free version of Avast has all the bells and whistles you'd expect in a capable anti-malware tool. ...
- AdwCleaner. ...
- HitmanPro. ...
- SUPERAntiSpyware.