How to Remove Infections From a Computer With Windows XP

Remove infections from your computer as soon as possible.

Unpatched security holes, unsafe Web browsing and lack of security awareness can cause your Windows XP computer to become infected by viruses and other malware. The process of removing infections from your computer will vary according to the type of malware, although there are several general steps you can take to remove most viruses and spyware. If you are unable to access the Internet with your infected computer, use a second computer to burn software or updates to CD/DVD. Do not connect media such as external hard drives or USB thumb drives while the computer is infected.

Instructions

1. Update your antivirus software definitions. Install an antivirus scanner if you do not currently have one installed on your computer, and update to the latest definitions. Run a thorough scan on your Windows XP computer, and remove any viruses it finds.

2. Update your antispyware software definitions. Install an antispyware scanner if you do not currently have one installed on your computer, and update to the latest definitions. Run a thorough scan on your Windows XP computer, and remove any malware it finds.

3. Download and install two Microsoft-provided products: Windows Defender and the Malicious Software Removal Tool (see Resources). Both of these products may be downloaded via the Windows Update tool. Run both programs, and remove any malware detected.

4. Reset your computer to a time prior to being infected via the System Restore feature. Click on "Start," "All Programs," "Accessories," "System Tools" and "System Restore." Select "Restore my computer to an earlier time," and click "Next." Select a date prior to the infection, and click "Next." Click on "OK," then "Next." Allow the computer to restart, then sign on as an administrator. Click "OK."

Tips & Warnings

• Turn on Automatic Updates in Windows Update to prevent Windows XP infections. Click "Start," then "Run." Type "sysdm.cpl" (without quotes) in the "Run" box, then press the "Enter" key. Click on the "Automatic Updates" tab, and select the "Automatic" option. Click "OK."

References

• Microsoft: Remove a Computer Virus
• Microsoft: How to Restore Windows XP to a Previous State
• Microsoft: How to Configure and Use Automatic Updates

Resources

• Microsoft: Malicious Software Removal Tool
• Microsoft: Windows Defender
• Download.com: Security Software