How to remove a computer virus and spyware.

How to remove a computer virus and spyware.

Even for an expert, removing a computer virus or spyware can be a difficult task without the help of computer malicious software removal tools. Some computer viruses and other unwanted softwarereinstall themselves after the viruses and spyware have been detected and removed. Fortunately, by updating the computer and by using malicious software removal tools, you can help permanently remove unwanted software.

To remove a computer virus and other malicious software, follow these steps:

Install the latest updates from Microsoft Update:

1. For Windows Vista and Windows 7:
   1. Click the Pearl (Start) button, then type Windows Update in the search box.
   2. In the results area, click Windows Update.
   3. Click Check for Updates.
   4. Follow the instructions to download and install the latest Windows Updates.
2. For Windows XP:
   1. Click Start, then click Run.
   2. Type sysdm.cpl and press the Enter key.
   3. Click the Automatic Updates tab and choose the Automatic (recommended) option.
   4. Click OK.

Use the Microsoft Safety Scanner

Microsoft offers a free online tool that will scan and remove potential threats from your computer. To perform the scan, visit: http://www.microsoft.com/security/scanner/

Install and run Microsoft Security Essentials

Microsoft offers a free malicious removal program; Microsoft Security Essentials that will also help protect your computer from being infected. To install Microsoft Security Essentials, follow the steps below:

1. Go to the Microsoft Security Essentials website at: http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/
2. Click Download Now.
3. If your browser prompts you to save or run the file, click Run.
4. Follow the steps to install Microsoft Security Essentials.
5. After installation, restart your computer and open Microsoft Security Essentials.
6. On the Home tab, choose the Full scan option, and then click Scan now.

For more information about how to remove a computer virus, visit the following Microsoft Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/protect/computer/viruses/remove.mspx

How to protect your computer against viruses

To protect your computer against viruses, follow these steps:

1. Turn on the firewall.
   1. For information on how to turn on your firewall with Windows XP, visit: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/283673
   2. For information on how to turn on your firewall with Windows Vista, visit: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Turn-Windows-Firewall-on-or-off
   3. For information on how to turn on your firewall with Windows 7, visit: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Turn-Windows-Firewall-on-or-off
2. Keep your computer up-to-date.
   1. For information on how to set Automatic Updates in Windows, visit: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306525
3. Install Microsoft Security Essentials and keep it up to date.
   1. For more information on how to install and use Microsoft Security Essentials, visit: http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/default.aspx

For more information about how to protect a computer against viruses, visit the following Microsoft Web site:

http://www.microsoft.com/protect/computer/default.mspx

What are rogue virus alerts?

Rogue security software programs will try to make you think that your machine is infected by a virus and usually prompt you to download and/or buy a removal product. The names of these products usually contain words like “Antivirus,” “Shield,” “Security,” Protection,” “Fixer,” so they appear to be legitimate. They will often run immediately when downloaded, or the next time your computer starts up. Rogue security software can prevent applications from opening, including Internet Explorer, and may display legitimate and very important Windows files as infections. Some typical error messages or pop ups you may receive may contain:

Warning!
Your computer is infected!
This computer is infected by spyware and adware.

A good sign that the software is not beneficial to you is that when you try to close the window it will continually pop up warnings similar to:

Are you sure you want to navigate from this page?
Your computer is infected! They can cause data lost and file corruption and need to be treated as soon as possible. Press CANCEL to prevent it. Return to System Security and download it to secure your PC.
Press OK to Continue or Cancel to stay on the current page.
It is strongly recommended that you don't download or purchase any kind of software that advertises in this manner.