If your computer is suddenly running slow, showing suspicious pop-ups, or redirecting your browser searches, you likely have a malware infection. Malware (malicious software) can range from annoying adware to dangerous ransomware that steals your personal data. Following a systematic approach is crucial to ensuring every trace of the infection is wiped clean.

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

As soon as you suspect an infection, disconnect your PC from the internet. This prevents the malware from communicating with its Command and Control (C&C) server, sending out your data, or downloading further malicious payloads. Turn off the Wi-Fi or unplug the Ethernet cable immediately.

Step 2: Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Most malware is designed to load automatically with Windows. By entering Safe Mode, you load only the minimum required processes, which often prevents the malware from running. To do this:

• Restart your PC. When you reach the sign-in screen, hold the Shift key and select Power > Restart.
• After the PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
• Press 5 or F5 to start your PC in Safe Mode with Networking.

Step 3: Delete Temporary Files

Before running a scan, you should delete your temporary files. This can speed up the virus scanning process and may even delete malware that was hiding in the temporary folders. Open the Disk Cleanup utility by searching for it in the Start menu, select your primary drive (usually C:), and check the box for Temporary Files. Click OK to delete them.

Step 4: Run an On-Demand Malware Scanner

While your standard antivirus is good for real-time protection, you need a specialized on-demand scanner to find existing infections. Since you are in Safe Mode with Networking, download and run a reputable tool like Malwarebytes Free or HitmanPro. These tools are specifically designed to detect and remove advanced threats that traditional antivirus software might miss.

• Perform a Threat Scan or Full Scan.
• Once the scan is complete, click Quarantine or Remove to isolate the detected threats.
• Restart your computer normally after the cleanup is finished.

Step 5: Clean Up Your Web Browsers

Many types of malware install malicious extensions or change your homepage and search engine settings. You must reset your browser to its default state to ensure no "browser hijackers" remain.

• For Google Chrome: Go to Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults.
• For Microsoft Edge: Go to Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values.
• Check your list of Extensions and manually remove anything you don't recognize.

Step 6: Verify and Update Your Operating System

Malware often exploits vulnerabilities in outdated software. Once your system is clean, reconnect to the internet and immediately run Windows Update. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates. Installing the latest security patches is your best defense against future attacks.

Step 7: Change Your Passwords

After a successful malware removal, assume that your login credentials may have been compromised. Change the passwords for your email, banking, and social media accounts. Use a unique password for every site and enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) whenever possible to add a critical layer of security.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep your software updated to avoid these issues in the future.