How to Fix a Computer Virus

You are busily checking your email, working on a research paper or playing a game (and winning) when it hits. Something weird happens on your computer. You get a pop-up message telling you that your computer is infected, or perhaps 157 new browser windows open. Your computer has a virus. While you certainly should not panic, it is a good idea to start working on getting rid of it immediately.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Windows XP or earlier
• Internet Explorer

1. Open Internet Explorer. Click "Tools" on the toolbar, and then click on "Internet Options." Make sure you are on the "General" tab and click the "Delete" button in the "Browsing" section. Click on "Delete Files," "Delete Cookies," "Delete History," and "Delete Forms." This will remove all of the temporary Internet files that can contain viruses.

2. Right click "My Computer" and click on "Properties." Click the "System Restore" tab and select the "Turn off System Restore" checkbox. Click "Apply" and then "OK." Many viruses copy files to your System Restore folder. Turning off System Restore will stop the virus from reinstalling when you restart your computer.

3. Click the "Start" button and then click "Run." Type "winmsd" (without the quotes) into the "Open" box and click "OK." Expand "Software Environment" by clicking the plus sign beside it. Click on "Startup Programs."

4. Check the programs in your "Startup Programs" against a list of reputable software and malware or viruses, which you can find online (see Resources). If you find any viruses in your "Startup Programs," run an online virus scanner such as Trend Micro HouseCall or Panda ActiveScan (see Resources).

5. Remove the virus manually if the virus scan does not work and the virus begins with "HKLM\" in your "Startup Programs." To do this, click "Start," then "Run," and type in "regedit" (without quotes). Find the virus in the Windows Registry, select it and delete it.

Tips & Warnings

• Install an antivirus program on your computer and update it regularly.
• When deleting temporary Internet files, do not click the "Delete Passwords" button if you use Internet Explorer to save passwords for you, or they will be lost. Deleting the wrong file or making other incorrect changes to the Windows Registry can cause your computer to fail. Only manipulate the Registry if you are completely comfortable doing so. If not, take your computer to a professional for assistance.

Resources

• Startup Program List
• Trend Micro House Call
• Panda Security