Alex Ruben
Comprehensive Guide to Removing Viruses from Windows 10/11 Laptops
Is your Windows 10 or 11 laptop sluggish or behaving unusually? This could be a sign of a virus infection. Fortunately, this guide will walk you through five straightforward and effective steps to remove all viruses from your laptop without spending a dime on paid software. By following these instructions, you’ll restore your device’s performance and security, ensuring a smoother computing experience.
Step 1: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan
The first step to eliminating potential vulnerabilities within your operating system is to perform a System File Checker (SFC) scan. This tool checks for corrupted system files and replaces them if necessary.
To initiate an SFC scan, follow these steps:
- Press Windows + S to open the search bar.
- Type
cmdinto the search field, then right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator. - In the Command Prompt window, type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. - Wait for the scan to complete; it can take some time. Once finished, check the output to see if any issues were found and fixed.
Step 2: Use Disk Cleanup
Disk Cleanup is a built-in utility in Windows that helps in removing unnecessary files, which can also include malware remnants. Clearing out these files can improve system performance and speed up the virus removal process.
Here’s how to use Disk Cleanup:
- Open the search bar by pressing Windows + S.
- Type Disk Cleanup and select the application when it appears.
- Choose the drive you want to clean, usually C:, and click OK.
- In the Disk Cleanup dialog, select the types of files you want to delete (like temporary files, Recycle Bin, etc.) and click OK, then Delete Files to confirm.
Step 3: Delete All Temporary Files
Temporary files can accumulate over time and may harbor malware. Deleting them is a simple way to enhance your system’s performance and security.
To delete temp files, do the following:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
%temp%and press Enter; this opens the Temp folder. - Select all files in this folder by pressing Ctrl + A, then press Delete.
- Empty the Recycle Bin to permanently remove these files.
Step 4: Use Microsoft’s Malicious Software Removal Tool (MRT)
Microsoft provides a free tool specifically designed to rid your computer of prevalent malware. It can help identify and eliminate threats that might have slipped through your antivirus software.
To run MRT, follow these steps:
- Press Windows + R to access the Run dialog again.
- Type
mrtand press Enter. - Follow the prompts in the MRT window, selecting the option to perform a full scan to thoroughly check your system.
- Review and follow the recommendations from MRT to remove any detected threats.
Step 5: Install Free Malware Removal Software
Finally, for an added layer of defense, consider downloading and installing reputable free malware removal software. This software can detect and remove infections that traditional antivirus programs may miss.
Some widely recommended options include:
Download the software, install it, and perform a full system scan to ensure that all malicious files are removed from your laptop.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
As you follow these steps, here are some tips to make the process easier:
- Before starting, ensure your important files are backed up. A virus removal process can sometimes lead to data loss.
- Stay patient during scans as they can take a while, especially if your system is heavily infected.
- If Windows runs into issues, consider booting your computer into Safe Mode before performing these tasks for better results.
Conclusion
By following these five steps, you can effectively remove viruses from your Windows 10 or 11 laptop without resorting to paid software. Regularly performing system maintenance and using reliable antivirus tools will keep your device safe and operating smoothly. Make it a habit to monitor your system and practice safe browsing habits to enhance your laptop’s security.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my laptop has a virus?
Signs of a virus include slow performance, frequent crashes, unexpected pop-ups, and applications opening or closing by themselves. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to follow the steps outlined in this guide.
Can I remove viruses without antivirus software?
Yes, you can remove viruses using built-in tools like SFC, Disk Cleanup, and MRT, as well as through temporary file deletion. However, having antivirus software adds an extra layer of protection.
What should I do if the virus isn’t removed?
If you’re still experiencing issues after going through these steps, consider seeking help from professional cybersecurity services or forums for further diagnostics and assistance.