Free Malware Removal Guide

TL;DR

This guide shows you how to remove malware from your computer without paying for expensive software. We’ll use free tools and techniques that are effective against most common threats.

1. Disconnect From the Internet

Immediately disconnect your computer from the internet (Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable). This stops the malware from sending information or downloading more harmful files.

2. Enter Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services, which can help prevent malware from running.

1. Windows 10 & 11: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type msconfig and press Enter.
2. Go to the Boot tab.
3. Under Boot options, check the Safe boot checkbox. Select Minimal.
4. Click Apply then OK. Restart your computer when prompted.

3. Run a Malware Scan with Windows Defender

Windows Defender (now called Microsoft Defender Antivirus) is built-in and often effective.

1. Open Windows Security (search for it in the Start menu).
2. Click on Virus & threat protection.
3. Under Current threats, click Scan options.
4. Select Full scan and click Scan now. This will take a long time – be patient!

4. Use a Free Malware Scanner (Second Opinion)

Sometimes, Windows Defender misses things. A second opinion scanner can help.

• Malwarebytes Free: Download from https://www.malwarebytes.com/mwb-download. Install and run a scan.
• HitmanPro (Trial): A 30-day free trial is available at https://www.hitmanpro.com/. It’s very good at finding advanced threats.

Run these scans *after* Windows Defender has finished.

5. Remove Found Threats

Both scanners will list any malware they find. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove or quarantine the detected items. Be careful not to delete anything you’re unsure about – if in doubt, leave it quarantined for now.

6. Check Your Browsers

Malware often installs unwanted browser extensions or changes your homepage.

• Chrome: Type chrome://extensions into the address bar and remove any suspicious extensions.
• Firefox: Type about:addons into the address bar and disable/remove unwanted add-ons.
• Edge: Type edge://extensions into the address bar and remove any suspicious extensions.

Also, check your browser’s homepage settings (usually in Settings > General) and reset them to your preferred page.

7. Reset Your Browsers

If you’re still having problems, resetting your browsers can help restore default settings.

• Chrome: Settings > Reset and clean up > Restore settings to their original defaults
• Firefox: Help > Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox
• Edge: Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values.

8. Run a Rootkit Scan (If Suspected)

Rootkits are very difficult to remove, but Malwarebytes can often detect them.

1. In Malwarebytes, go to Settings > Advanced Features.
2. Enable ‘Show all detected items’ and run another scan.

9. Re-enable Internet Connection

Once you’re confident the malware is gone, reconnect your computer to the internet.

10. Keep Your Software Updated

Regularly update Windows and all your software (browsers, antivirus, etc.). Updates often include security patches that protect against new threats.