How to Fix a Computer Bug

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Easily remove a virus from your PC.

Fixing a computer bug can be difficult for even the most experienced computer users. However, if you catch the virus on time, you can remove it with your installed antivirus or a free online antivirus scanner and shouldn't have to call a computer repair expert. Just be aware of the way your computer works, and if you notice that it performs strangely, starts to freeze, turns off suddenly, or opens a lot of unwanted Internet windows, then you may have a virus and need to run your antivirus program.

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Step 1

Disconnect the Internet from the computer either by unplugging the Ethernet cable from the back of the computer or by turning off the modem.

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Step 2

Delete all the temporary Internet files and cookies by going to "Start," "All Programs" and select "Accessories." Click on "System Tools" and choose "Disk Cleanup." Select the C: drive from the drop-down menu. Make sure "Temporary Internet Files," " Recycle Bin" and "Temporary Files" are check-marked and then click "OK." Click "Yes" to confirm that you want to erase these files. This will keep the virus from hiding in any of the junk files.

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Step 3

Go to "Start" and right-click on "My Computer." Select "Properties" from the drop-down menu. Choose the "System Restore" tab at the top of the window. Check the "Turn off System Restore" box. This will keep the virus from hiding in the restore files.

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Step 4

Reconnect your internet Ethernet cable, or turn your modem back on. Open your antivirus program and click on update. Make sure that your antivirus is a current version. Otherwise, it will not update, or eliminate the virus. After updating, unplug the Internet cable again, and then scan your computer for viruses. Run your scan three times eliminating any viruses it finds. Restart your computer after every virus scan. Your computer should be free of virus.

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Step 5

Run an online virus scanner like Micro House Call, free byte, or Avast if the virus did not allow you to update your antivirus. Eliminate any viruses found. Run the online virus scanner one more time and restart your machine.

Step 6

Download and install a free virus software program like AVG, Avast, or Avira. Choose to save the program and then click twice to install it. Follow the on-screen installation directions. Scan the computer one more time and restart.

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