How to Clean Your Computer from Viruses

Is your computer running slower than usual, showing strange pop-ups, or behaving unpredictably? It might be infected with malware or viruses. Don’t panic — in this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to clean your PC, step by step, using both automatic and manual methods.

🦠 Common Signs of a Virus Infection

• Computer runs unusually slow
• Pop-up ads appear when you’re not browsing
• Unknown programs start automatically
• Browser homepage or search engine changes without permission
• System crashes or freezes frequently

Pop-ups and slow performance are common signs of malware infection.

⚙️ Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

Unplug your Ethernet cable or disable Wi-Fi. This prevents the virus from spreading or sending your data to remote servers while you’re cleaning the system.

🔍 Step 2: Enter Safe Mode

Restart your computer and press F8 (or Shift + Restart on Windows 10/11). Select Safe Mode with Networking. This mode loads only the essential system processes, making it easier to remove malware.

Safe Mode prevents most malware from running at startup.

🧰 Step 3: Scan with a Trusted Antivirus

If you already have an antivirus program installed, update it and perform a full system scan. If not, install one of these reliable free tools:

• Malwarebytes Free
• Bitdefender Free
• Kaspersky Security Cloud Free

Let the scan complete and remove all detected threats.

Use a reputable antivirus tool to detect and clean malware.

🧽 Step 4: Manually Check Suspicious Programs

Open Control Panel → Programs and Features and uninstall any unknown or suspicious software. Be cautious — if you’re unsure about a program, look it up online before removing it.

Remove unwanted programs that may reinstall malware.

🗑️ Step 5: Clear Temporary Files

Delete temporary and cache files to remove leftover traces of malware. Press Win + R → type cleanmgr → select your drive (usually C:) → choose all options and click OK.

🚫 Step 6: Check Startup Programs

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → open the Startup tab → disable any programs you don’t recognize. This prevents malicious software from launching automatically.

🔄 Step 7: Update Windows and Software

Once your system is clean, make sure Windows and all programs are up to date. Security updates patch known vulnerabilities that malware can exploit.

Regular updates help prevent future infections.

🧠 Prevention Tips

• Never open email attachments from unknown senders
• Download software only from official websites
• Regularly back up your important files
• Use a strong antivirus with real-time protection

✅ Conclusion

Cleaning your computer from viruses doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few careful steps and the right tools, you can restore your PC to peak performance and prevent future infections. Stay cautious — prevention is always easier than repair!

Written by Computeria ITS — Your source for smart and practical IT solutions.

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