How to Delete a Virus Off a Dell Computer
Like most PCs running Windows, Dell computers can be prone to viruses. The virus prevention software Microsoft includes with its operating systems sometimes lets bugs slip through, which is why many users install more powerful third-party antivirus applications. If your Dell already has a virus though, it’s too late for that. Luckily, Microsoft’s virus removal components are more effective than their virus prevention tools, so you can delete the virus without any additional software.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Run Microsoft’s “Malicious Software Removal Tool.” To do so, open your Start menu and then click the “Run” dialogue. Type “MRT” here, then hit your ENTER key. This application comes pre-installed with Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000, and Windows Server 2003. If you cannot run or find the repair tool for some reason, you should download a new copy from the link in Resources.
-
2
Click on the button labeled “Next.”
-
-
3
Select the option labeled “Full Scan.” While this does take a while longer than the “Quick Scan” default, it gives a better chance of deleting a virus from your Dell.
-
4
Click on the button labeled “Next.” Wait for the program to complete its scan of your infected Dell computer.
-
5
Follow the prompts that appear to delete the virus off your Dell.
-
6
Click on the button labeled “Finish.”
-
7
Restart your computer.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
After you delete the virus off your Dell, you may wish to purchase antivirus software to prevent a later infection.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Siri Stafford/Digital Vision/Getty Images
