Finding out which are the best malware removal tools out there isn't that hard. On the appropriate request, applications are easily found on the Internet that allow you to fix problems on your computer associated with a virus infection.
Such software is usually distributed free of charge or shareware.
Although its capabilities include a quick search and guaranteed removal of malicious code and annoying ads, which well-known (and, most often, paid) antiviruses cannot always cope with.
Windows 10 built-in tool
The first way to get rid of malicious applications that the average user of Windows 10 should use is to run the already built-in Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool.
Sometimes it works automatically, but if a virus infection has already occurred, the tool is launched manually. You can find MMSRT in the System32 folder of your system drive, located in the System32 directory. The efficiency of the application is not too high, but at least half of the problems will be solved.
Rice. 1. Windows 10 Malicious Software Removal Tool
The benefits of using the tool include:
- Russian-language interface;
- intuitive control;
- no need to download additional software.
Among the shortcomings of the application are a long scan time and low efficiency. And you can download it not only for Windows 10, but also for the 7th and 8th versions of the operating system. Update number KB890830 is only 52.8 MB in size.
Fast and Free AdwCleaner
One of the most famous and effective programs that allows you to remove unwanted applications from your computer is AdwCleaner. The advantages of using it include working in Russian, no need to install on a computer and constantly coming out updates that improve the quality of the system check.
In addition, after completing the scan, AdwCleaner gives the user several recommendations on how to prevent malware infection. And to run the utility, you just need to press the button to start scanning, and, having familiarized yourself with the results, set the settings and select the information to be deleted.
Rice. 2. Search for malicious code using the AdwCleaner utility.
A feature of the application is that during the scanning process, sometimes it becomes necessary to restart the computer. And after the completion of the work, a report is displayed on the screen, which can be saved as a text file.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free Extension Assistant
Rice. 3. Main window of the Malwarebytes Anti-Malware application
Simple yet effective Junkware Removal Tool
Rice. 4. Report on the operation of the Junkware Removal Tool.
The operation of the utility is accompanied by the creation of a system restore point. And during the scanning process, automatic troubleshooting and removal of virus programs takes place. The check ends with the creation of a detailed report on the problems found and their solution.
CrowdIsnpect - search for unwanted processes in the system
Malicious applications can also be detected by the processes running in the system. This is the basis for the operation of the CrowdInspect utility, which scans the startup list and currently running services as it works. Using a constantly updated database of viruses and unwanted software, the program collects information about processes and compares it with a list of potential threats.
Rice. 5. Analysis of Windows processes using the CrowdInspect utility.
One of the results of checking the CrowdInspect system is the display of a list of network connections and IP addresses, as well as the reputation of the sites to which they belong. Although only advanced users can deal with most of this information. For the rest, it is advisable to choose utilities that automatically fix problems to remove malicious code.
Shareware utility Zemana AntiMalware
In terms of the effectiveness of the fight against viruses and unwanted extensions, the Zemana AntiMalware application is not inferior not only to other free utilities, but even to paid versions of some well-known antiviruses. The advantages of the program include the possibility of cloud search, a clear Russian-language interface and real-time system protection. The paid Premium version has even more benefits.
Rice. 6. Search for malware with the Zemana AntiMalware utility.
Zemana does a good job of removing plugins in browsers, the presence of which often leads to pop-up advertisements. Although, to start the search for extensions, the program settings will have to be changed by going to the "Advanced" section.
And the minuses of the utility include shareware distribution - after 15 days you will have to pay for its use. Although usually a few hours are enough for a user to quickly scan a computer, after which the application is deleted.
HitmanPro - maximum efficiency when removing plugins
Rice. 7. Work utility HitmanPro.
The program effectively removes most common viruses. And when checking browsers, it finds and fixes problems with third-party extensions. After the scan is completed, the user is prompted to review the list of detected problems. And, if any of the marked files is not dangerous, according to the user, it can be removed from the quarantine.
Spybot Search & Destroy - Enhance PC Security
Rice. 8. Spybot Search & Destroy - find, fix and prevent problems.
Spybot is able to monitor changes to the registry and system information, thanks to which it not only solves problems that have already appeared, but also provides prevention of possible problems. In addition, all the changes that the utility has made can be undone - sometimes this helps to avoid crashes in Windows when a useful file is deleted along with the virus.
The most powerful but slow Dr.Web CureIt!
The most powerful and efficient utility is Dr.Web CureIt! , the advantages of which include the possibility of free use. By downloading the latest version of the application (the size of which exceeds 100 MB) and running it on a computer, in a few hours you can get a progress report and a 99.9% virus-free system.
It is CureIt that recommends using the technical support of some Internet providers. The only drawback of the application is that it can only be used once. A few hours after downloading, another update comes out, and the old one stops working.
The advantages of the utility include not only a high level of malware search efficiency, but also the ability to download it again. After re-downloading from the official website of the manufacturer, the application is again ready to detect viruses. At the same time, the databases have already been updated, and the search efficiency is increasing.
Rice. 9. Message about the need to update the Curelt utility.
Troubleshooting Browsers
In the process of removing viruses, you should also pay attention to browser shortcuts - often they are the source of the problem. Malicious code is written in the properties of the shortcut and changes the launch method:
- sometimes when entering the Internet, the user does not get to the main page, but to another site - most often phishing or advertising some services;
- along with the launch of the browser, a third-party plug-in may be installed that changes the search engine, home page, and network settings.
You can solve the problem manually by checking the browser shortcuts. But the best way to do this is with utilities such as Shortcut Scanner. The free application checks logical and external drives for unwanted programs, and detects suspicious or broken shortcuts.
The advantage of using this tool is free distribution and operation on any modern Windows systems (from XP to 10), the disadvantage is the lack of a Russian-language version.
If an unwanted plug-in has already been automatically installed in the browser, you can remove it through the extensions menu in the settings. Otherwise, instead of going to the selected pages, advertisements and extraneous resources will appear on the screen.
Most often, this problem occurs for users who have already installed a significant number of extensions, and do not notice 1-2 extra ones. If there are practically no plugins, it is easier to notice a new one and take measures to disable it. And if you are not sure that the add-on is actually malicious, special utilities designed for specific browsers will help.
For Google Chrome, the official developers have created a utility called Cleanup Tool. It automatically checks for embedded malicious code every time you open your browser.
If a problem is detected, the plugin is disabled along with the rest of the extensions. After that, the user can restore the add-ons he needs manually.
Rice. 11. Search for malicious code with the Chrome Cleanup Tool.
For Mozilla Firefox and the standard Internet Explorer browser for older versions of Windows, there is a free Avast Browser Cleanup application.
The utility automatically scans two browsers (if they are in the system), and as a result it produces a list of suspicious plug-ins. The antivirus program can be downloaded from the official website of the manufacturer.
Rice. 12. Cleaning the browser from malicious code using Avast Browser Cleanup.
Similar in functionality and the same free utilities are released by other companies. Moreover, for different browsers and with a wide range of features. Some programs also provide effective real-time protection - however, most of them have such an opportunity for a fee.
conclusions
Using applications that remove unwanted software does not eliminate the need to install antivirus software. Each program performs its own tasks. Anti-virus utilities protect the system almost constantly and prevent infection of system files.
And applications to eliminate problems that have already appeared are needed, mainly after the antivirus turned out to be ineffective. Using two options at once - installed and periodically launched utilities - will provide maximum protection efficiency. Although in order for the computer to be even more secure, it is desirable:
- follow the recommendations of anti-virus utilities that issue warnings when entering suspicious resources;
- check with antivirus files downloaded or recorded from external media, the origin of which is unknown (for example, downloaded not from the official site, but from an outside web page);
- set the antivirus settings to automatically update virus databases and run the application manually at least once a week.
Preventing viruses and other types of malicious code from infecting your computer will reduce the likelihood of problems. Although neither Curelt! nor even a paid antivirus provides 100% protection.
Best Malware Removal Tools
It’s worth starting with the fact that malicious programs in this context (Malware) are not quite viruses, but rather programs that show unwanted activity on a computer, install without the knowledge of users and, in addition, they are difficult to remove.
We clean Windows from spyware and malware and files
In this video, I will tell you how to clean your computer on the Windows operating system from spyware and malware and files, as well as how to free up space on your hard drive from temporary files and how to clear the cache. An overview of three free utilities will be made
It is very easy to pick up some kind of malicious code on the Web. It embeds itself in the browser, changes the start page, installs an unfamiliar search engine, adds ads, or downloads something. In general, it does everything that spoils the life of not only the user, but also the platform itself.
One of the most serious problems in the fight against such unwanted programs and malicious code is the inactivity of local antiviruses. The same "Doctor Web" or "Kaspersky" sometimes simply ignore outside interference, considering it to be ordinary and harmless (for them) advertising.
How to be?
The solution to the problem in this case are special utilities for cleaning the computer from viruses and trojans. This software has limited functionality and is aimed solely at finding and eliminating threats of such a plan. Venerable antivirus developers offer similar solutions, and for free.
Doctor Web's virus-cleaning utility is called CureIt. The application does not require local installation and works "as is". After downloading the distribution from the official site, you simply run it and start checking. Also, the user has the opportunity to scan his computer directly through the browser's web interface, again using the developer's website. That is, here we already have a web utility for cleaning your computer from viruses.
Approximately the same situation is with Kaspersky Lab with its Virus Removal Tool product. We download the distribution kit, run the scan and remove the found spyware and trojans. But for some reason, the company abandoned its offspring: since 2015, the utility for cleaning the computer from Kaspersky viruses is no longer updated and is not serviced by the developer in any way. The functionality of the program works as intended, but the process of scanning, recognizing and removing malicious code is already outdated.
It is also worth noting that these are completely free utilities for cleaning a computer from viruses, so some flaws and miscalculations can be forgiven for them. However, the software described above cannot be called effective. On the Web, you can find more meticulous software that will scan your system inside and out, as well as find and neutralize malicious code. Some very powerful computer virus cleaning utilities find a lot of unwanted programs after CureIt and Virus Removal Tool checks. Yes, Doctor Web and Kaspersky's local antiviruses work better, but as far as this particular area is concerned, here, alas, they lose on many points.
So, we present to your attention the best utilities for cleaning your computer from viruses and trojans. The software has proven itself in the maintenance of the Windows environment and has distinguished itself by its efficiency, as well as by the mass of positive feedback from users.
AdwCleaner
This is not the most powerful utility for cleaning your computer from viruses, but it fights like a real beast with aggressive ads and automatic opening of pages in the browser. One of the clear advantages of the software is the availability of a free distribution license. Along with such efficiency, this is a great option for the average user.
The AdwCleaner virus cleaning utility does not require local installation and works, as they say, on the fly. Plus, the software has a well-localized and understandable interface, so any beginner will understand it. Even if there are any difficulties, the wizard of tips and settings will carefully guide the user through all the important points.
Software Features
Using the utility is very simple: launch the program with the "Scan" button, wait and study the results, if necessary, uncheck unnecessary items and click "Clear". Sometimes the application, in especially severe cases, asks you to restart your computer and continue fixing problems.
After work, the utility for cleaning your computer from viruses will provide a detailed report where you can view the found and processed objects in all details. The program will be a great solution for those who are constantly worried about pop-up ads and aggressive installation of third-party search engines.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free
This is one of the most popular and best utilities for cleaning your computer from viruses. The program is distributed free of charge and does an excellent job with pop-ups, unwanted integration of left-handed search engines, and also detects trojans and other malicious code.
The interface of the utility may seem complicated for beginners, but after a few days of use you get used to it, and the feeling of discomfort, if any, disappears. There is an intelligent master assistant, so you won’t have to get lost here.
The Anti-Malware virus cleaning utility does a very good job of detecting malicious code and then removing it. Moreover, this functionality is as effective as in the paid version. The latter, for the most part, adds the prefix "auto" to the available capabilities, that is, all actions are performed by the program independently. The user only needs to note which tools should be involved.
CrowdInspect
Another of the best utilities for cleaning your computer from viruses. The principle of operation of the software is slightly different from the usual functionality of other programs. For the most part, such software scans and removes malicious code from executable files on the platform: it examines the browser and its add-ons, analyzes startup, the registry, and then displays a list of unwanted "guests".
Unlike them, CrowdInspect thoroughly examines running processes in the Task Manager. By checking its database, the program calculates malicious code and blocks it. After that, the already disabled process can be traced to the final file and get rid of the virus.
Distinctive features of the software
Here we have, as it were, a solution to the problem by contradiction, that is, we first look for the effect, and only then the cause, followed by removal. There are some limitations in the free version of the program, but for the average PC user they are not critical, and almost invisible.
Despite the fact that the utility interferes with the system processes of the platform, it has practically no effect on performance. So the software is perfect for weak machines with a small amount of RAM.
Avast Browser Cleanup
One of the most common causes of viruses on the computer is browsers. For them, developers and amateurs churn out all sorts of useful and interesting software, but scammers are not asleep either. The Internet is full of pop-ups, ad blocks and other tinsel, by clicking on which you suddenly find an installed add-on in your browser.
After installation, the program will ask you to scan your browsers for malicious code. In addition to its own database of viruses, the utility checks browser extensions for suspicious activities: excessive traffic consumption, pop-up windows, deep intervention in the system code, etc.
Utility features
After scanning, the program displays a handy list of problems found, where the user can separate the wheat from the chaff and completely get rid of aggressive ads, as well as malicious add-ons.
The utility does an excellent job of servicing Mozilla and Internet Explorer browsers. The latest updates have added support for Chrome and Opera, but the developer has not fully adjusted the tools for interacting with these browsers, so some problems may arise with them. The latter promised to fix it in the near future. In the meantime, the owners of "Khromov" and "Opera" can pay attention to the next respondent.
Zemana AntiMalware
Another representative of the anti-virus fraternity, distinguished by a mass of positive feedback from users. Among the obvious advantages of the software, one can note a cloud search in the database of viruses, and it is performed very efficiently.
For example, if malicious code was written a few minutes ago and then sent to the Web, then after detecting a threat on at least one computer, the utility immediately notifies the "cloud", after which all other users are automatically insured against its appearance and distribution.
The program also features an intuitive interface and competent localization. Any user can handle the functionality of the utility, and if there are any problems, then an intelligent master assistant is at your disposal.
Distinctive features of the utility
In addition to the usual search for Trojans and other malicious code on the computer, the program allows you to scan browsers with due care for aggressive and harmful extensions. The software supports all popular browsers, including Chrome, Opera, Mozilla and Internet Explorer.
The utility is installed locally, but it needs a network connection to communicate with the cloud. Unlike Kaspersky, Doctor Web or Nod, Zemana practically does not consume system resources. The only category of users who remained dissatisfied with the program are the owners of USB modems, that is, those who have traffic on a hard account. The utility constantly “communicates” with its cloud service, so for connections with limited traffic, this is not the best option.
You should also pay attention to the terms of software distribution. The first 15 days the user is provided with a trial (trial) period, during which the functionality works without restrictions. After the expiration of this, the possibilities of the utility are significantly reduced, and it becomes practically useless (it is disconnected from the "cloud"). The license costs no more than the same "Kaspersky" or "Doctor Web", and the effectiveness of this software is obvious.
HitmanPro
One of the distinguishing features of the utility is its high speed. If, when using the programs described above, during the scan it was possible to drink tea or go to warm up, then here everything happens almost instantly.
Moreover, the software detects not only existing threats, but also “tails” from remote ones. The latter sometimes remain in the system, and not all antiviruses are able to detect such specific code. The utility does not need to be installed locally and works "as is".
The program perfectly copes with trojans, worms, rootkits and other malicious code. After scanning, the user will be provided with a detailed report, where, if necessary, you can uncheck some programs, and then thoroughly clean the system. In addition, if the utility works in the system tray, then aggressive ads, pop-ups and attempts to integrate third-party software disappear in browsers.
As for the license, it is paid. If you want to get acquainted with the utility, you can try all the available functionality for 30 days for free. After the expiration of the trial period, the possibilities of the program go almost to zero. The cost of the license is comparable to Nod and Doctor Web.
In specialized forums, users in their reviews did not find any critical flaws in the program. The software is efficient and works as intended. By the way, the developer carefully monitors his offspring and periodically releases updates, improving his product and taking into account the opinions of users.
Many manufacturers of protection tools release free editions of antiviruses that can be completely free to download from the official website of the manufacturer and use on your computers.
Most developers only include virus scanners without real-time protection in their free editions, but there are developers who provide a full range of tools to protect your data in their free version.
Below is a selection of antiviruses that you can download and use absolutely free of charge.
07/19/2018 , Anton Maksimov
A new version of a Kaspersky Lab product called Kaspersky Free has joined the ranks of free antiviruses with real-time protection. If earlier they had only a curing utility (Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool anti-virus scanner), now they also release real-time file system protection and protection against malicious sites on the network.
06/12/2018 , Anton Maksimov
Security is not enough. Many manufacturers of protection systems believe so. Including the developers of the free antivirus 360 Total Security, which includes as many as 5 engines. Yes, this antivirus has many different engines, each of which performs its task. This includes virus detection engines from Avira and Bitdefender, QVM II proactive protection, 360 Cloud, and System Repair.
04/18/2018 , Anton Maksimov
Avast Free Antivirus is a free antivirus suite with real-time protection. Perfect for home use. In addition to the anti-virus module itself, it has a number of additional tools that will help save data and protect you from online threats.
01/11/2018 , Anton Maksimov
So we got our hands on the free Comodo Internet Security. This is a set of tools to protect your computer, which includes a firewall, antivirus and a proactive protection module. I will not describe all the features of Comodo Internet Security, because, in my opinion, they are standard and are present in most similar programs. The main difference between this program and the rest is its free and amazing reliability. When properly configured, the program allows you to secure your computer to the maximum. The other day I reviewed several comparative tests that various companies were conducting, and the results of these tests quite surprised me. As an example, I will give the results of one of these tests.
05.10.2017 , Anton Maksimov
AVG AntiVirus FREE is a worldwide known antivirus program that is available free of charge for home users and is already used by millions of people around the world. Unlike many free scanners from major antivirus labs, AVG is a complete product that can keep your PC secure to the fullest. AVG Anti-Virus FREE is easy to use and does not slow down the operating system (has low system requirements).
07/12/2017 , Anton Maksimov
Today I will talk about another free antivirus Avira Free Antivirus, which recently settled on one of my computers. The situation with it is special, since this antivirus is not a simple scanner, it does not need to be downloaded every time you need to check the system. This antivirus hangs in memory and does everything on its own. It downloads and installs updates on its own, independently checks the files accessed by the operating system and various applications.
A massive attack by the WannaCry ransomware (WannaCryptor, WanaDecryptor) has infected tens of thousands of computers in organizations and public institutions around the world. The malware exploits a known vulnerability described in security bulletin MS17-010 and a combination of EternalBlue / DoublePulsar exploits that can attack other vulnerable Windows systems on the same network. As a result, infection of one computer can lead to compromise of the entire corporate network in the organization.
After being introduced to a computer due to the successful exploitation of a vulnerability, the WannaCry ransomware encrypts all files and documents of certain formats by executing remote commands sent via the SMB protocol and spreading to other Windows computers on the network.
Perhaps you are too trusting, and therefore did not install an antivirus on your PC, or the license for your antivirus has already expired, or the antivirus you have installed does not provide maximum protection, and ... maybe your PC is infected!
20.02.2015 , Anton Maksimov
For the vast majority of home users of Windows 7 and Windows 10, Microsoft's regular antivirus product is fine. In the Windows 10 operating system, it is already built into the system called Windows Defender and does not need to be additionally downloaded and installed. But for Windows 7 you will have to install by downloading the Microsoft Security Essentials distribution from the Microsoft website. In fact, this is the same product, but with different names for different systems.
07/22/2013 , Anton Maksimov
Dr.Web CureIt! - an antivirus that is noticeably different from the usual programs for everyone. This utility does not work all the time, preventing malware from appearing on the computer. It allows you to cure an already infected PC from viruses, Trojan horses, rootkits, etc. This feature of Dr.Web CureIt! defines the scope of the product. It can be used periodically to check the reliability of the antivirus installed on the computer, as well as in cases where, by indirect signs, one can suspect a PC infection. In general, Dr.Web CureIt! hard to overestimate.
06/26/2013 , Anton Maksimov
Continuing the popular theme of free antivirus, I want to mention another development that I met relatively recently and which I have not had time to write about yet. In theory, it would be possible to add this information to the original message, but I decided to put everything in the form of a separate note. So, today we will talk about a free antivirus from Kaspersky Lab called Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool.
10/21/2009 , Anton Maksimov
An interesting free antivirus program is released by Microsoft Corporation. The utility is called Malicious Software Removal Tool (Malicious Software Removal Tool for Microsoft® Windows® OS). This tool automatically scans your computer for a range of malware and removes them immediately when it is found. The tool is not a replacement for a regular anti-virus utility, it only allows you to conduct an express analysis for common viruses.
The fact is that malware is not a virus in the usual sense of the word. These are small utilities that climb into the computer without asking and install any infection or show unwanted ads. And there are 2 problems here:
- Antiviruses don't see malware because they don't consider it a virus.
- These threats are very difficult to remove.
But still it is possible. After all, there is a special software with which you can find and remove malware. And below will be considered 8 excellent utilities designed to remove such adware viruses.
It’s worth noting right away that Windows 10 already has a malware removal tool by default. Yes, it may not be as effective at cleaning Malware and Adware as other utilities, but it's still worth a try. Fortunately, you don’t need to download and install anything - everything is already installed and configured.
As a rule, this software starts automatically, but if necessary, you can start it manually. It is located here: C:\Windows\System32\MRT.exe.
Finding and removing malware is easy - you just need to click the "Next" button. But the verification itself takes a very long time, so it will take some time.
The main advantage of this software is that it will not harm your PC or laptop 100% (but only if Windows 10 is licensed). Another plus: you can download it for Windows 7 and 8 at. site().
AdwCleaner is very effective in dealing with:
- pop-up windows in the browser;
- opening advertising pages in a new tab;
- changing the home page in the browser and the inability to change it.
Its main advantages:
- free;
- constantly updated;
- gives really practical advice on how to prevent infection of a PC or laptop in the future (after analyzing and cleaning the PC).
Using the utility is extremely simple:
- Launch it and click Scan.
- See what threats she was able to detect on the computer (you can remove the birds from unnecessary items).
- Click Cleanup.
During the operation of the program, you will need to restart your PC in order to completely remove adware viruses and other infections. And when the computer cleaning is completed, a detailed report will appear on what was deleted.
By the way, AdwCleaner has recently received support for Windows 10, so you can safely install it on any operating system.
Today, some malicious utilities can impersonate AdwCleaner. Therefore, if you download it from an outside site, be sure to check for viruses on virustotal.
Anti-Malware Free
Another great utility with which you can clean your computer from malware is Anti-Malware. Very popular among users today.
Its main advantages:
- reliable computer protection from malware (easily finds webalta and other common threats on a PC);
- effective removal;
- presence of Russian language.
It is also completely free (there is also a paid version, but the first one is more than enough).
As for me, the malware check takes a bit too long. But this is just my opinion. Nevertheless, this utility is not in vain considered one of the most popular.
Zemana AntiMalware
You should also pay attention to Zemana AntiMalware. This is another good malware cleaning utility.
Main advantages:
- effective search (often finds adware that the previous 2 utilities do not see);
- scanning individual files to choose from;
- real-time PC protection.
In addition, it has one very useful option - checking for malware in the browser and removing them. Since pop-ups most often appear for this very reason, this makes this utility one of the best.
Among the minuses - 15 days of free use and the need to connect to the Internet. But since such malware removal tools are used only occasionally, the first disadvantage is considered insignificant.
Junkware Removal Tool
Another great free utility for finding threats.
Main advantages:
- works with adware, browser extensions, etc.;
- itself removes the found threats in folders, shortcuts, processes and any browsers (before that it creates a checkpoint for recovery);
- generates a report after the operation completes.
HitmanPRO program
HitmanPro is software that can also be used to find and remove malware.
Main advantages:
- fast work;
- effective search: sees many threats, and even those that have already been removed (they usually leave traces);
- does not need to be installed.
It is paid, but there is a 30-day free trial. This is more than enough to check your PC for malware.
Malicious Software Removal Tool
Also on this list there is another software from Microsoft that does not need to be installed and is suitable for Windows 7 and 8. You can download it.
Using the program is easy. Turn it on, click "Next" and wait for the report.
Spybot utility
And the last free program to remove viruses from your computer is Spybot.
Its main advantages:
- wide functionality;
- can track newly installed software and changes that are made in the registry and Windows files;
- is able to roll back changes in case of failures in the PC after removing viruses.
That's all. Now you know how to detect malware and how to remove it. Above were 8 best utilities for finding and removing adware viruses (most of them are free), and which one to choose is up to you.
For maximum protection of your computer or laptop, it is recommended to use one of these utilities in conjunction with an antivirus. If you do not know which one is better to choose, you can look here.
Not all users install an antivirus on their computer or laptop. Some are lazy, others don't see the need for it. And when suddenly the PC starts behaving strangely (buggy and slow or ads appear in the browser), you can simply check your computer for viruses online and for free. Luckily, there are plenty of options today.
Below are the top 7 antiviruses that can scan for viruses online. True, it will not work to check the computer without downloading the installer. Virus scanning is done online, but antiviruses need access to your files. Therefore, some of them are installed as a module for the browser, and some - as a small utility. Also on the list there are 2 antiviruses that support online virus scanning without downloading. Which one to use is up to you.
Kaspersky will help you quickly check your computer for viruses online. A full-fledged antivirus is well known in Russia, and its "younger brother" is also popular.
The program runs in the "cloud", so you can quickly scan any PC or laptop for viruses online with Kaspersky.
Its main advantages:
- does not slow down Windows (which cannot be said about the full-fledged Kaspersky antivirus, which “eats” a lot of resources during the scan);
- does not conflict with other antiviruses installed on the computer;
- does not remove the viruses found, but only reports them (on the one hand, this is a plus, but on the other, you will have to remove them manually);
- produces a detailed report.
Scanning for viruses online in Kaspersky is very simple:
- Download the installer file from this link.
- Run the program.
- Wait for the end of the check.
After that, you will only have to remove the viruses (if they were found).
BitDefender QuickScan - quick online PC virus scan
Another way to clean your computer from viruses online is using BitDefender QuickScan. It is considered to be very effective and enjoys great success abroad. Approximately, as we have Kaspersky.
Cleaning your computer from viruses online is also easy. You only need:
- Follow this link.
- Click on "Scan Now".
- Install a browser module through which the antivirus will gain access to your folders and files.
- Wait for the end of the check.
The main advantage of BitDefender is a quick online virus scan. On average, it takes 1-2 minutes. On the one hand, this is cool, but on the other hand, what will he have time to scan in such a short time?
Most likely, the online scanner checks the main list of the most common threats: system files, startup - i.e. those places where viruses mostly "live". The developers themselves say that checking a computer for viruses online is carried out in the cloud (on their servers), which is why it is done so quickly.
ESET Online Scanner - efficient computer virus scan
The next way to check a laptop for viruses online is using the free ESET product from the NOD32 developers. To start checking, follow this link.
It is recommended to scan the PC through Internet Explorer - in this case, the scan will be performed in the browser window. When using Chrome, Firefox or Opera, the user will have to download a small file, and the PC analysis will be performed in a separate program.
After downloading and running the file, you need to set the settings. For example, enable scanning of archives and potentially dangerous programs. You can also uncheck the "Remove threats" box so that the antivirus does not accidentally delete important files that it thinks are infected. Then click the "Start" button.
ESET Online Scanner will update the databases, after which an online scan of the PC for viruses will begin.
- thorough system scan (takes 40 minutes on average - depends on your Internet speed and HDD size);
- detects any threats;
- can detect malware, incl. in the register;
- performs heuristic analysis;
- generates a complete report on the work performed.
Another plus is that the online scanner is automatically deleted after the scan is completed. That is, no files will remain after it.
Thus, ESET antivirus is perhaps one of the best ways to clean your computer from viruses online. Its only drawback is the need for installation.
Panda Cloud Cleaner - online scan of a flash drive for viruses
There are 4 versions to choose from:
- standard;
- portable (does not require installation);
- to scan a USB flash drive;
- in ISO format (rescue boot disk for PC virus check that won't turn on).
Which version to choose, decide for yourself. For example, if you want to check a flash drive for viruses online, then download the third installer on the developers' website.
Main advantages:
- quick check (on average - 20-30 minutes);
- detection of common threats;
- effective online virus cleaning.
As in the previous case, Panda also "self-destructs" after successfully checking and treating viruses. That is, it is automatically deleted and leaves no files behind.
F-Secure Online Scanner - virus and spyware treatment
Another great antivirus that can scan your computer for viruses online. To start testing, go to the developers website and click on the "Run" button. After downloading and running the installer, a new window will open, in which the laptop or PC will be scanned.
The main advantages of this antivirus:
- quick scan - takes an average of 10-15 minutes;
- effective treatment of viruses and spyware utilities;
- works even with antivirus installed on your PC.
Before starting the test, it is advisable to turn off "heavy" programs. This will help speed up the scanning process.
VirusTotal - online virus check without download
All previous options had one thing in common - the need to download the installer. In this case, you can scan your computer for viruses online without installing any programs.
VirusTotal is a service from Google that can check any files on your PC. It can also scan websites for malicious utilities. Using the service is very simple:
- Follow this link.
- Specify the path to the file you want to scan, or the URL of any site.
- Click the "Check" button.
Wait for the verification to be completed, and then see the report.
You won't be able to check all the documents on your computer through VirusTotal. It can scan sites and files separately. This option is suitable for those who, for example, have downloaded some program and want to make sure that it is free of viruses before installation. For such cases, VirusTotal is best suited, because it does not need to be downloaded.
Dr.Web - effective file check for viruses
And the last way to check your computer for viruses online is through Doctor Web. It has an excellent service with which you can check individual files. For this:
- Visit this site.
- Click Browse and navigate to the file you want to scan.
- Click the "Check!" button.
In this case, you can scan your computer for viruses online without installing Dr. Web. But, like VirusTotal, Doctor Web can scan only one file at a time.
A few words in conclusion
It sounds strange, but you cannot completely scan a laptop or computer and remove viruses online. The first 5 antiviruses require a small file to be installed. The question arises: isn't it easier to install a full version of the same Kaspersky or BitDefender? They have more features, plus provide real-time PC protection. In addition, many popular antiviruses have free versions.
The last 2 options are VirusTotal and Dr. Web - do not require installation, but check one file at a time. This is also not very convenient.
By the way, a computer or laptop can be infected not with viruses, but with malware. As a result, ads appear in the browser, third-party pages of unknown sites open, etc. In this case, antiviruses will not help, special software is required here.
Actually, that's all. Above, 7 ways were discussed on how to check a computer or laptop for viruses online for free. Which antivirus to use - decide for yourself. If you want to completely check your computer for viruses, then choose one of the first 5 programs. And if you need to scan several files, then use the VirusTotal or Dr. Web.
