Removing a Desktop Virus

Antivirus software

If a virus has infected your desktop computer, chances are it will spread and infiltrate your system, not stopping until it has completely taken over. The result will be your eventual inability to surf the net or open your personal files without a barrage of pop ups or unbearable waiting time. In the worst case scenario, your desktop can crash, leaving you unable to retrieve important information. Antivirus software can effectively remove even the most destructive viruses, and can protect your desktop from future invasions.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Antivirus software

1. Download an antivirus software program from reputable website. Both Mcafee and Norton Antivirus have downloadable software that you can use to remove the virus from your computer.

2. Close all open programs and save any important documents that you may have been working on. This includes any open Internet browsers such as, Internet Explorer or Microsoft Firefox. Any open programs could interfere with the antivirus installation.

3. Install the antivirus software according to the manufacturer's instructions. Installation may take some time, so be sure to completely follow through, answering any prompts during the installation progress.

4. Complete a full scan of your computer's hard drive. Some programs will automatically begin this step upon the completion of installation. If your program does not, look for the full scan option and click it with your mouse.

5. Follow the steps to remove the virus from your desktop. If the antivirus program detects an infection it will ask you if you would like to clean it. The antivirus program will guide you through the steps needed to remove the desktop virus.

Tips & Warnings

• If the antivirus software fails to remove the desktop virus, uninstall it and try another. Different antivirus programs update their virus definitions at varying times, and some are more up to date then others. Find virus software that has been top rated by its users. If the software is outdated, you will be wasting your time by installing it. Once you have an antivirus installed, be sure to update it to avoid future infections. It only takes a few minutes to update and protect your computer. Always back up your hard drive before performing a virus removal. This way, you have a copy of any important documents or information you may need if your hard drive needs to be reformatted.

• If you have encountered a virus that is crippling your desktop and virus software it not doing the trick, get it to a professional right away. The quicker the virus is wiped clean, the better your chances of saving your files from being lost.

Resources

• Stinger
• McAfee
• Norton