How to Remove a Virus - Step-by-Step Guide

If your computer is infected with a virus, it’s important to act quickly to remove it and prevent further damage. This guide will walk you through the process of identifying and removing a virus using tools like Process Explorer and Autoruns.

Step 1: Identify the Malicious Process

Download and open Process Explorer (a free tool from Microsoft Sysinternals).
In Process Explorer, click the Target button (crosshair icon) and drag it over the suspicious window or process. This will highlight the corresponding process in the list.
Right-click the identified process and select Properties.
In the Properties window, locate the Path field. This shows the file location of the malicious process.
Click Explore to open the file directory where the virus is located.

Step 2: Delete the Malicious File

In the file directory, delete the malicious file identified in Step 1.
Empty your Recycle Bin to ensure the file is completely removed.

Step 3: Disable Malicious Startup Entries

Viruses often add themselves to the startup process to re-infect your system after reboot. To prevent this:

Download and open Autoruns (another tool from Microsoft Sysinternals).
Search for the following locations in Autoruns:
- HKCU\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKCU\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
Look for suspicious entries, such as:
- WinSafe.exe
- bootstat.exe
These files may appear legitimate but are often unverified and malicious.
Disable the suspicious entries by unchecking the boxes next to them in Autoruns.

Step 4: Restart Your Computer

After completing the above steps, restart your computer to ensure the virus is fully removed and no longer running in the background.

Important Note: Be cautious when deleting files or disabling startup entries. Some legitimate programs may have similar names or locations. If you’re unsure, research the file or consult a professional.

Additional Tips

Keep your antivirus software up to date and perform regular scans.
Avoid downloading files or software from untrusted sources.
Enable Windows Defender or another reputable antivirus program for real-time protection.

By following this guide, you should be able to effectively remove the virus and secure your system. If the issue persists, consider seeking professional assistance.