Computer viruses are a common threat to anyone who uses a computer or smartphone. They can slow down your device, steal your personal information, and even cause your system to crash. While antivirus software can be effective in protecting your device, it can be expensive and may not always be foolproof. In this article, we will discuss how to remove a virus from your computer without using antivirus software.
Identify the Virus
The first step to removing a virus from your computer is to identify it. Symptoms of a virus infection include a slow computer, pop-ups, and programs opening and closing on their own. Once you have identified the virus, you can take steps to remove it.
Enter Safe Mode
Entering safe mode allows you to run your computer with only essential programs, making it easier to remove the virus. To enter safe mode, restart your computer and press the F8 key repeatedly until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears. Select Safe Mode with Networking, which allows you to access the internet if you need to download any tools.
Delete Temporary Files
Deleting temporary files can help remove viruses. To do this, press the Windows key + R and type "temp" into the Run box. This will open the Temp folder, where you can select and delete all files.
Disable System Restore
System restore can sometimes bring back a virus that you have removed. To disable system restore, right-click on My Computer and select Properties. Click on System Protection and select Configure. Select Turn off system protection and click OK.
Run a Virus Scan
You can use online virus scanners like VirusTotal or Jotti's malware scan to scan your computer for viruses. These scanners use multiple antivirus engines to scan your files for viruses. However, keep in mind that online scanners may not be able to remove the virus.
Use a Malware Removal Tool
Malware removal tools like Malwarebytes or HitmanPro can help remove viruses from your computer. These tools scan your computer and remove any malicious files they find. You can download these tools from their respective websites.
Delete Suspicious Programs
If you suspect that a program is causing the virus, delete it. To do this, go to Control Panel and select Programs and Features. Select the program you want to delete and click Uninstall.
Edit Your Registry
If the virus has made changes to your registry, you can edit it to remove the virus. However, be careful when editing your registry as it can cause serious problems if you delete the wrong entry. To edit your registry, press the Windows key + R and type "regedit" into the Run box. This will open the Registry Editor, where you can search for and delete any suspicious entries.
Reset Your Browser Settings
If you are experiencing pop-ups or redirects in your browser, reset your browser settings. To do this, open your browser and go to Settings. Click on Advanced and then click on Reset settings. This will clear all cookies, history, and saved passwords.
Conclusion
Removing a virus from your computer without antivirus software can be time-consuming, but it is possible. By following the steps above, you can remove a virus from your computer and keep it running smoothly. However, it's important to note that antivirus software is still the best way to protect your computer from viruses in the first place.
