How to Remove a Virus From Computer: A Complete Guide

Overview

Is your computer running slowly, showing pop-ups, or is your web browser not responding or taking a long time to start up?

We live in a modern, hyper-connected society where our computers have become essential to our daily work life, storing both personal and business information, photos, and memories. However, with this easy accessibility and connectivity, we may become vulnerable to viruses or malware infections. Don’t worry, removing viruses or malware is entirely possible with the right applications, antivirus tools, and techniques.

In this blog, I will guide you on how to remove a virus from computer to keep it safe and secure.

What is a Computer Virus or Malware?

how to remove a virus from computer

A computer virus is a type of malware or self-replicating software that spreads to other files or programs on computers once it infects a system. It can cause damage to computer data or security software, creating significant operational issues or impairing security functions.

Malware is a type of malicious software that includes harmful viruses such as Trojans, adware, ransomware, spyware, and rootkits. These types of malwares are designed to damage or gain unauthorized access to computers in any office or organization.
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What are the signs that your computer has a Virus or Malware?

How do you know if your computer is infected or has a virus or Malware?

If you find the following common signs on your computer, then it’s time to take further steps.

  • Random Pop-Up ads
  • Disabled or deactivated antivirus software
  • Disabled Windows Firewall
  • Slow Performance
  • Computer keeps shutting down
  • Long time to Reboot
  • Unknown Programs Installed
  • Browser redirects to suspicious websites
  • Someone else is controlling your computer.
  • Computer asks for a password to get in that doesn’t require one.
  • Computer operating system is malfunctioning and can’t be updated.
  • If Task Manager shows unusual activity.

How to remove a virus from computer:

1) Disconnect from the Internet :

If you notice signs of a virus or malware attack, the first step is to disconnect your computer from the internet to prevent the virus or malware from spreading or sending data or personal files to its source. Follow these to disconnect internet

  • Power off your internet router or modem,
  • Disable Wi-Fi, or
  • Disconnect the LAN cable from the computer.

2) Delete Temporary Files :

Viruses or malware may hide in temporary files, so deleting them can enhance your computer’s speed. Follow these to delete temporary files,

  •  Press WINDOWS + R keys together to open the ‘Run’ box.
  • Type %temp% or temp or Prefetch and press ENTER. This opens the ‘Temporary Files’ folder.
  • Select all files and Press Delete from Keyboard.

3) Boot into safe mode :

Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode that loads only essential files and drivers. When your computer is in Safe Mode, you can easily identify and remove unwanted software or viruses. Additionally, it limits the ability of malware to function on your device. Follow your system manufacturer’s website to find out how to boot your computer in Safe Mode.

Normally, pressing F8 or Shift + F8 on the keyboard during startup helps access “Safe Mode” and select “Safe Mode with Networking” (if you need internet access for updates).

4) Run a Full Computer Scan :

Use a reliable and premium version of antivirus software or anti-malware program to scan your entire computer. The best antivirus software in 2025 includes:

You can also use Windows Defender, which is built into Windows 10 and 11.

5) Remove unwanted or suspicious programs:

Go to Programs and Features in the Control Panel and uninstall software you don’t use or find suspicious. Follow these steps to remove programs:

  • Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features
  • Sort by installation date and uninstall any suspicious or unused software.

6) Reset web browser settings:

Sometimes, malware installs unwanted browser extensions. Resetting web browser can remove these extensions and restore the default settings.

7) System update

Make sure that both the operating system and antivirus software are up to date.

8) System restore:

If a virus or malware continues to persist after completing all of the above steps, consider performing a system restore to a previous date or to any restore point you have created earlier.

9) Contact computer technician:

Consider contacting a trained and experienced computer technician who knows how to remove a virus from computer.

How to remove a virus from computer

how to remove a virus from computer

FAQs: Removing Viruses & Malware

How do viruses or malware get onto your computer?

Your computer can get a virus or malware by engaging with suspicious websites, installing illegal or pirated software, or opening spam email attachments or phishing emails.

Run a premium antivirus or anti-malware program to scan the entire computer.

Many free antivirus programs offer only basic protection; However Premium antivirus versions provide more security features, such as firewall protection, to guard against viruses and malware.

Yes! A factory reset completely deletes viruses and malware, but you should back up your files and folders if you do not want to lose them.

Conclusion

Removing a virus or malware from your computer might be challenging, but following these steps will eliminate viruses and infections while protecting it from future cyber attacks. Always use a reliable premium antivirus, avoid downloading from suspicious websites, keep your software updated, and never open spam emails with attachments from unknown sources.

Still confused how to remove a virus from computer ? Leave your questions in the comments or call me at +1- 844-405-0212. I am here to help!

For more Computer Related support tips, stay tuned to 365dayson.com .

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