How to Stop a Virus in Windows

Having a virus infect your computer can be extremely alarming and distressing, especially if you are unsure about what to do to stop and remove it. Fortunately, the process to stop a virus in Windows isn't complicated, provided that you have the right tools and a clear direction about how to proceed. Even if you can't seem to get the virus removed from your Windows computer, there are other alternatives that you can turn to that will get your computer running again.

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Administrative privileges on your Windows user account

1. Step 1

   Boot up your computer in Safe Mode. Safe Mode gives you a better chance at stopping a virus in Windows by only loading necessary drivers and programs when the operating system boots up. To get into Safe Mode, restart your computer and press the F8 key as it boots up. When you see the Windows Boot Menu appear, choose the option that says "Safe Mode with Networking."

2. Step 2

   Run an antivirus scan on your computer. If you have an antivirus program on your computer already, use its update feature to update it with the latest virus definitions, then run a complete system scan and remove any threats that are found. If you do not have an antivirus program on your computer already, use an online virus scanner such as ESET's online scanner or Trend Micro's HouseCall.

3. Step 3

   Run an anti-malware scan of your computer with a program such as Malwarebytes, or another reputable anti-malware software program. An anti-malware program can detect malicious software that antivirus programs can't pick up, and it can help stop any malicious software that's running on your computer.

4. Step 4

   Restart your computer and run another set of antivirus and anti-malware scans after your computer has booted normally. If any infections are found, remove them, restart your computer and perform another scan. You may have to repeat this process multiple times in order to fully stop and remove a virus infection, depending on what type of virus it is and how long it has infected your computer.