What to Do If Your Computer Gets a Virus

What to Do If Your Computer Gets a Virus

Computer viruses can cause serious problems. But if you act quickly, you can often remove the virus before it does too much damage. This guide will walk you through some basic steps. In some cases, you may still need help from a computer expert.

1. Install Antivirus Software

If you don’t already have antivirus software, install one right away. Only install one antivirus program—having more than one can cause errors. Some good options are Bitdefender and Norton.

2. Start a Virus Scan

Make sure your antivirus program is running. Then, start a virus scan. If you’re not sure how to do that, check the help section on the antivirus company’s website.

Most programs have different types of scans. For the best results, run a full system scan. This scan looks at all the files on your computer and may take a few hours. You don’t have to stay at the computer while it runs.

If the scan doesn’t find anything but your computer still has problems, try other fixes or contact a support professional.

3. Check the Results

After the scan, the antivirus will show a list of any threats it found and suggest what to do next. Most of the time, following its advice is the best option.

If the antivirus can’t remove a threat, don’t ignore it. Look online for help, or contact the antivirus support team. A professional can also assist you.

4. Use Anti-Malware Software

Some antivirus programs include anti-malware tools. If yours doesn’t, install a separate anti-malware program. It can find threats that your antivirus might miss. Run a scan just like you did with the antivirus.

5. If the Virus Won’t Go Away

If nothing works, you may need to erase everything on your computer. This means deleting all files and reinstalling the operating system. It’s a big step, but it usually removes even the worst viruses.

At this point, many people hire a professional. But if you're careful, you can do it yourself. Just know that you will lose all your files. That’s why it’s so important to back up your data often.

After reinstalling everything, scan your backup files to make sure you don’t put the virus back on your clean computer.

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Conclusion

By following these steps, you can protect your computer and your data. Quick action and the right tools can make a big difference.

5 FAQs About Removing Computer Viruses

How can I tell if my computer has a virus?

Common signs include slow performance, frequent crashes, pop-ups, and unknown programs running in the background.

What’s the best free antivirus software?

Reliable free options include Avast Free Antivirus and Microsoft Defender for Windows.

Can I remove a virus without antivirus software?

It’s possible but not recommended. Manual removal is risky unless you know what you’re doing. Use antivirus software for safety.

Should I disconnect from the internet if I suspect a virus?

Yes. Disconnecting helps stop the virus from spreading or communicating with malicious servers.

Will reinstalling Windows remove all viruses?

Yes, reinstalling Windows completely removes all viruses—but it also deletes your files. Always back up first.