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Computer Virus Removal: Which Software You Need to Use

published 6/29/2022

Chances are, like many others, you've come to rely on your computer a great deal. That's why it is so stressful when malware affects your files and risks corrupting your data.

So when malware finds its way onto your system, it's normal to feel a sense of dread and frustration. But malware is more common than you might think, and anyone can fall prey to it.

Over 70% of Americans are worried about cybercrime, and for a good reason:

Over 560,000 new pieces of malware are detected daily, for a total of over 1 billion malware programs worldwide. In fact, 7% of websites Google tested for malware were infected.

You can rely on malware removal software to ensure your safety on and offline. In this article, we've outlined which software you should use for computer virus removal.

Let's dive in!

Malware Removal Software vs. Antivirus

If you're not versed in the terminology, the difference between malware removal software and antivirus might be confusing. You should install antivirus software on your computer to prevent malware from affecting your system.

These tools help to safeguard against malware. They scan your downloads and your system and remove threats as they come across them.

Malware removal software is a tool that will help with computer virus removal if your system has already been affected. However, most of the time, the tools go hand-in-hand.

Antivirus protection also provides instant malware removal when it scans anything unsavory.

Do I have a Computer Virus? When Do I need Malware Removal Software?

The signs of a virus can be difficult to notice, as some malware operates more subtly than others.

Perhaps you're already aware of the problem and know to get rid of it, or maybe you are unsure and still evaluating the signs. We have more information on how to recognize a computer virus here.

Here are five signs your computer might be affected:

1. Your processing speed has slowed down
2. Ads and popups keep interrupting you
3. Friends report that they received strange messages from you via email or social media
4. You observe odd activity, such as files getting locked or fans running at high speeds despite few applications running
5. You notice unwanted programs on your computer

So, how do you get rid of a computer virus and/or malware?

Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes is often the first port of call when you suspect you have attracted a virus. It updates daily to stay on top of all new malware and identifies and removes threats the minute they appear.

Unfortunately, Malwarebytes comes with a basic free version which has to be activated manually. However, this is still useful when you are actively searching for malware and provides top-notch security.

Run it once a week to check for any virus you haven't noticed. Malwarebytes is swift to flag and remove malware into a quarantine zone. In addition, you get a 14-day premium trial that offers real-time protection and stronger ransomware blocking.

Trend Micro Internet Security

This tool is a good option if you're looking for the highest level of protection. The premium software suite is available for $59.00 per year but is well worth it to quickly rid yourself of malware with just one click.

In 2021, Trend Micro won Product of the Year at AV comparatives, and in 2020 it was PCMag's editor's choice. You get real-time protection and instant neutralization.

Another benefit of Trend Micro Internet Security is that it is straightforward, even for non-tech-savvy users.

Bitdefender

If you're looking for well-capable free malware removal software, Bitdefender may be the right choice. It is user-friendly with a clean and intuitive interface.

The software is solid and quiet - there are no settings or options to consider. You simply install the tool, and it gets on with its job, eliminating risks to your computer security.

Bitdefender looks out for harmful links, misbehaving apps, and online scams. Most importantly, it provides all the tools you need for malware protection in one free, handy package.

Avira Free Security Suite

Another great free security tool is the Avira Security Suite. This not only provides regular software updates and malware scanning and removal. It also throws in a VPN which can help you stay safer online in the first place.

It also provides PC optimizing tools to ensure your speed and performance can keep running as they should. The downside with this service is that it doesn't come with ransomware protection.

Emisoft Emergency Kit

The Emisoft Emergency Kit is a focused tool specifically for malware removal. It doesn't offer real-time scanning and long-term protection. Instead, it's the tool to turn to if you've already encountered an emergency and need a fix.

The anti-malware app is portable - you can download it onto a USB stick and insert it into an infected PC to try and combat what is affecting it.

In addition, it comes with command-line options for pros and can help you out when other options have already failed.

Worried About Your Data?

Installing powerful antivirus software and being careful online are the two critical steps in ensuring you don't suffer from malware attacks. However, when you do fall prey to infection, don't panic!

The tools above will often be able to help you. If you're worried about your data, however, there are more steps you can take to keep yourself safe.

Ensuring you regularly backup data is one important strategy. But you may also want to know about recovery strategies for when essential files get lost.

Our website provides a wide range of helpful computer repair, data recovery resources, and computer virus removal. Get help today with any of your computer and malware problems.