How to Remove a Virus From a Computer

Disconnect, scan in Safe Mode, and clean up a Windows PC infected with malware, then secure it against reinfection.

1. Disconnect from the internet

   Turn off Wi-Fi or unplug the Ethernet cable to stop the malware from spreading or sending out your data. Do not log in to any accounts until the machine is clean.

2. Boot into Safe Mode

   On Windows, open Settings, System, Recovery, click Restart now under Advanced startup, then choose Troubleshoot, Advanced options, Startup Settings, Restart, and press 4 for Safe Mode. Many viruses can't load here.

3. Run a full scan with two tools

   Open Windows Security (Virus & threat protection) and run a Full scan, then run a second on-demand scanner such as the free Malwarebytes. Quarantine or remove everything they flag.

4. Clear browser data and reset the browser

   Remove unknown extensions, clear cached files, and reset your browser settings to default to wipe out hijacked search engines and pop-up redirects.

5. Restart normally and change passwords

   Reboot into normal mode, reconnect to the internet, install pending Windows updates, and change passwords for important accounts from a known-clean device.