How to Fix Windows Update Browser Hijacks

A browser hijack is a form of malicious software that prevents you from accessing certain sites. A hijack can change your browser's settings and often results in a number of unwanted pop-up advertisements. If you are experiencing a hijack while attempting to access Microsoft's Windows Update site, you will want to fix the problem immediately. A typical anti-virus scan should remedy it.

Instructions

1. Open your anti-virus application. If you do not have one, Microsoft offers a free Microsoft Security Essentials utility (see Resources).

2. Launch the application. Typically, anti-virus applications will automatically update upon launch to include the latest virus definitions. If this does not happen, select the "Update" option on the main application window or via the menu bar.

3. Select a full system scan and select your "C" drive if given the option. Click "Start/Scan" to begin scanning the computer for threats.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove or quarantine the detected threats after the scan completes. Restart the computer after the removal. When the system boots back up, you should be able to access Windows Update without your browser being hijacked.

References

• Microsoft Online Safety: What Is Browser Hijacking?
• Microsoft Security: Fix Your Hijacked Web Browser
• Microsoft Security Essentials: Scanning for Viruses, Spyware, and Other Potentially Unwanted Software

Resources

• Microsoft Security Essentials: About Microsoft Security Essentials