Slow computer is one of the main signs that denote that your machine has been affected by malware. Here’s how to detect the threats and get rid of them
Recently you have noticed that your computer is slower than usual. You’ve tried cleaning up “junk” files without getting any performance results. Or, from time to time, the classic and worrying blue error screen appears on the display. It could be a virus.
It is very likely, in fact, that your machine has been hit by one of the many malware that lurk on the Internet. For a number of reasons. You forgot to make the latest security update that Windows has released. Or, you have been so naive as to open an attachment or a link contained in a suspicious email. Worse still, you haven’t installed antivirus software. And now, as a result, you find yourself with an underperforming computer. Not to mention that in all likelihood, you have allowed hackers to sneak into the data stored on your pc.
In these situations, the first thing you should do is to try and remove the malware by running a proper antivirus scan. Here is how to do it.
Windows Software Removal Tool
Microsoft provides a very effective tool: Windows Software Removal Tool. It is a program that the California-based company releases and updates frequently. You should make sure that Windows Update is set to download updates automatically. Alternatively, you can download the malware removal tool directly from the manufacturer’s website.
Antivirus
Although you have run the Windows Software Removal Tool, the problem remains. Don’t worry, there are other ways to go. The simplest one, before going to “strong” measures, is to try running a scan with your antivirus. Make sure it is updated against the latest malware. Don’t have one? That’s too bad. On the internet you can find several free and very good antivirus. After downloading the software, start it up and carry out the system analysis. In such cases, it’s very important to run a full scan (even if it takes longer) of all parts of the computer, including connected peripherals.
Online tool
Also the second step didn’t have the desired effect? Don’t despair. You could try using one of the many free online tools available on the Internet. These are antivirus tools that will search the web for malware and other malicious software.
Format Windows
If you really could not find and eradicate the computer infection with the previous tips, there is only one last resort: format the operating system. Before resetting Windows, be sure to make a backup of your most important data.
How to Protect Yourself
Remember that it is often our superficiality that actually hands over our computers to hackers. Don’t open emails from unknown sources, don’t click on suspicious links, don’t download programs from unofficial sites. And keep your computer and antivirus updated. All it takes to protect yourself is a little bit of attention.