Are you worried about viruses infecting your Windows computer? If so, you're not alone. With the increasing number of malware and viruses targeting Windows operating systems, it's crucial to protect your PC proactively. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover virus removal guidelines for Windows to help you keep your computer safe and secure.

Prevention is critical to protecting your Windows computer from viruses. This starts with using reputable anti-virus software and always keeping it updated. Regularly updating your operating system and other software is also crucial, as many updates include security patches that protect you from newly discovered vulnerabilities.

In addition to using anti-virus software, it's essential to practice safe browsing habits. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrustworthy sources, as these can often be vectors for malware. You should also be cautious when opening email attachments, as many viruses are spread through phishing emails.

Prerequisite: To start the removal process, you will need to download software to scan for and remove any malicious software. It is recommended that you download this software on another computer that is known to be uninfected and use a clean, recently formatted USB to transfer the software to your infected computer.

Microsoft Safety Scanner - This program is completely self-contained and requires no Internet access to run or install. Just download it, copy it over to the infected computer via a USB drive, and then run it. If you decide to run a full scan, it can take hours or even days, depending on how many files are on the drive(s). This software is time-stamped and will only run for ten days. After that, you would need to download a new copy of it.

Malwarebytes - This program requires Internet access to download the complete installation files. I recommend downloading the installer and copying it to the infected computer via a USB drive. Once the installer is on the infected computer, connect to the Internet and start the installation program.

Avast Free - This program requires Internet access to download the complete installation files. I recommend downloading the installer and copying it to the infected computer via a USB drive. Once you have the installer on the infected computer, connect to the Internet and then start the installation program.

Taking immediate action is essential if you suspect your Windows computer is infected with a virus. Here are some virus removal guidelines to help you effectively eradicate malware from your system:

1. Disconnect from the Internet: If you suspect your computer is infected, one of the first steps you should take is to disconnect it from the Internet. This can help prevent the virus from spreading to other devices on your network or communicating with its command-and-control servers.

2. Enter Safe Mode with Networking: Boot your computer into Safe Mode with Networking to limit the number of processes running and make it easier to remove the virus. Depending on what software you want to use, you may need an Internet connection to install it. Now, Safe Mode with Networking only supports wired (ethernet) connections because it uses generic network drivers, and there just aren't any generic WiFi drivers.

You will need to use the Advanced Boot Options to get Windows to boot up into Safe Mode, and here is how to get there:

Windows 11 Advanced Boot Options

Windows 10 Advanced Boot Options

3. Scan for viruses: Run and/or install one of the recommended programs listed above, then run a full scan. Be prepared to wait as the software scans all of the files on your drive(s). This can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours.

4. Remove suspicious files and programs: Inspect your system for any suspicious files or programs and remove them. Look for unusual filenames, recently installed programs, or programs you don't remember installing.

If you can't remove the virus on your own, consider seeking help from a professional computer technician or a reputable IT support service, such as Geeks in Phoenix. They can assist in performing a more in-depth virus removal process and provide guidance on preventing future infections.

After removing the virus from your Windows computer, it's important to take steps to prevent future infections. This includes maintaining up-to-date anti-virus software, patching your operating system and software, and practicing safe browsing habits.

In conclusion, viruses pose a significant threat to Windows computers, but by following the virus removal guidelines outlined in this article, you can effectively protect your system from malware. Remember that prevention is vital, so stay vigilant and secure your computer to avoid falling victim to malicious software.

Check out the following article for more information on free Internet security software.

Free Internet security software

Check out this article for a detailed description of one of the worst cases of infection I have seen.

A real life virus removal horror story

Here is a list of a few free Internet security programs I recommend for those on a budget. Remember that free software often comes with limitations but is fully functional. Some require manual updating, but that is a small price for great free software. Let us start with an anti-virus program.

When it comes to anti-virus software, I like to see real-world testing comparisons. Take a look at AV-Test, an independent IT security institute that tests all major AV software every three (3) months. That way, the tests will be done with real-world AV samples.

Windows Defender (built into Windows)

• Pros: It is built into Windows and is one of the highest-rated AV programs. If you decide to install a third-party AV program, Windows Defender will switch itself into a secondary AV program and can be set up to periodically scan for threats.
• Cons: Windows Defender only protects the operating system and does not integrate with browsers.

Avast Free

• Pros: This is a fully functional anti-virus program that has file, behavior, web, and mail scanners. The program updates itself automatically.
• Cons: There is no free technical support. Support for this product is sold by call or by year.

Next is a Firewall program:

Windows Defender Firewall (built into Windows)

• Pros: It is already installed and running inside Windows.
• Cons: It provides essential inbound/outbound protection. You can create custom security rules, but configuring them requires some detailed information. It is not for the novice user.

ZoneAlarm

• Pros: The program is fully automatic in updating itself.
• Cons: It only provides inbound and outbound protection but does it in full stealth mode. It also requires internet access to install.

Let us now look at two free spyware/malware programs. My first choice is Microsoft Safety Scanner. Note that I ranked Microsoft Safety Scanner first because it requires no installation or additional software to run.

Microsoft Safety Scanner

• Pros: It requires no installation. Just download and run with Administrative privileges.
• Cons: It is time-stamped and will only run for ten (10) days after downloading it.

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

• Pros: It is an excellent malware program. It checks for updates before performing any scans.
• Cons: It requires Internet access to complete the installation.