How to Get Rid of a Boot Sector Virus

Your Windows CD will compare the data on your hard drive with its own.

The "boot sector" is the section of your hard drive devoted to properly starting ("booting") your computer. If a boot sector virus gets on your machine, the entire process may be corrupted so much that you cannot turn your computer on at all. Because you cannot access the computer itself, you will need to use your Windows installation disc to repair the computer and get rid of the boot sector virus.

Things You'll Need

• Windows Installation CD

Instructions

1. Insert your Windows installation CD into your disc drive.

2. Start your computer, which will automatically detect the CD, booting off of it and bypassing the virus.

3. Type "R" to begin a scan when the selection menu pops up.

4. Click "Repair" when prompted to fix the virus(es) the disc detects. This will get rid of any boot sector viruses, but retain the other data on your hard drive.

5. Eject the disc and restart the computer.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have lost your Windows CD contact Microsoft for a replacement. The number U.S. users can call is 800-360-7561.

References

• Microsoft Support: How to Protect Boot Sector From Viruses in Windows

Resources

• Microsoft Support Contact Info