Windows: virus caught - what to do?
This practical tip shows you how to proceed if you have caught a virus under Windows.
Virus caught: first steps
- The first thing to do is keep calm. In most cases, even if you have a virus on your computer, you can remove it.
- If it's just adware that has infested your browser, you don't have to worry much. If your system crashes or the use of Windows is severely hampered, there is a more serious problem.
- Depending on whether it is only a "small" or "large" virus, you should disconnect from the Internet for security reasons. Stubborn and destructive viruses usually reload additional pests via the network.
1. Remove viruses - how it works
- First open the Control Panel and look for new additions in the list of installed programs. If an unknown installation was carried out here recently, remove the program. You can find detailed instructions in this practical tip.
- If you have just caught adware that affects your browser, AdwCleaner and the Junkware Removal Tool will help you. The use lasts only a few minutes and therefore cannot harm any other problems.
- We also recommend the system scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to find and delete contaminated files.
- Alternatively or additionally, you can Use Web CureIt. This virus scanner is also extremely reliable.
2. Start Windows in the protected mode
Start Windows in safe mode to boot the system with only the most necessary settings. This may prevent the virus from starting.
- Open the safe mode before starting Windows with the "F8" key. You can find more information about safe mode in this practical tip.
- If you have started Windows in safe mode, you should use the virus scanner again. Step 3 may also only be possible in safe mode.
3. Restore Windows
- A system restore will reset your computer to a selected point in time. The infection is thus removed in some cases. If you have a backup program, you can run it. This practical tip shows you how to start the recovery of Windows.
- If the restore fails, choose an earlier time to restore. Otherwise try it out in Safe Mode (see point 2).
4. Get help to fight viruses
If you still have problems with the virus, you can look for help in numerous forums.
- To do this, create a log file using the HijackTihis program.
- Experienced users in the CHIP forum can read this file and thus give you further assistance.
5. Reinstall Windows
If the virus turns out to be particularly persistent, you only have to reinstall Windows. This completely resets the system and all data is deleted.
- Before you reinstall Windows, you should save your data on a USB stick or an external hard drive.
- For the complete installation of Windows you will find instructions for Windows 7 and Windows 8.
Prevention: How to protect yourself effectively against viruses
If you have finally got rid of the virus, you should protect yourself against a new infection.
- Create backup: Windows always creates its own backups in the background. However, you can also create your backup with other software such as Paragon Backup & Recovery 2014 Free and save it to external storage.
- Surf safely: Always surf the web carefully. Avoid dubious websites and only download from trustworthy websites. You should always be careful when attaching emails. We will show you how to recognize a dangerous spam mail in the next practical tip.
- Use anti-virus software: Under Windows you should always install anti-virus software. The pre-installed protection of Windows is not sufficient. The free protection programs from Avast, BitDefender and AVG are recommended. You can get an unbeatable offer for professional virus protection from Kaspersky below.
- Install updates: You should always update Windows and other software so that you are protected against the latest dangers.
So that you don't catch a virus under Windows: professional protection for 3 euros
A rock solid system ensures that you don't catch malicious software and you don't have to remove malware from your PC. Get the professional protection Kaspersky PURE 3.0 Total Security as a full version for a total of 1 year for only 3 euros - if you want directly as a download to your computer.
- Go to the CHIP kiosk and get 1 year of virus protection from Kaspersky for only 3 euros.
- After you have received and installed the software, you will receive a promo code that you will need to register with the manufacturer. You will receive all further information after purchasing the virus protection.
Also read about the types of malware and how a virus works.