by Friere

Created on: May 12, 2008   Last Updated: August 29, 2009

Getting infected by a computer virus is a typical experience that even the savviest of internet users often get. This is because spy ware and virus writers utilize loopholes in popular software programs. For example, programs such as Windows XP and internet sites that require java script are points of vulnerability for most computer users. So how do you remove a virus or spy ware program from your computer once it is infected? There are several ways a person can rid themselves of malware or viruses. These viruses can be removed by using an online virus scanning program, through manual removal if you know where the virus or malware is hiding,by performing a boot time scan of operating system and by using virus/malware removal programs.

Panda Express.com is but one of a number of sites that provide comprehensive spy ware and antivirus removal procedures for the computer. However, Panda Express is free to use. There two aspects of online virus programs that make using them good. First, because often time malware or virus programs on your computer may not have current virus or malware definitions. To use an online scanner you log on to the site such as Panda Express.com and follow there instructions. This will entail enabling java script and allowing the site to install software that will be used to detect your malware problem. Second, you will be asked where to begin the scan? When that prompt occurs, select my computer so that a thorough scan of your entire operating system is performed. In other cases, if your anti-malware program has told you were the virus is you can type the path information into the browser interface. However, a thorough computer scan is best when a virus is suspected since these programs can hide in other directories and replicate themselves upon deletion. Yu then select yes and viola! The virus or malware is removed. So what if you know where the virus is because your ant-virus program has told you, but it can't delete the file?

In many instances viruses or malware will enter your computer through and install in your windows internet temp directory or temporary program install folder. These folders are used to store temporary programs and installation programs from places such as PandaExpress.com and will remain there until you empty those folders. You can delete these files from an Internet explorer web browser by choosing tools, internet options, and then delete files. This will remove all files stored in the temp directory in all user profiles provided you are using Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 and above.

http://www.microsoft.com/protect/computer/viruses/re move.mspx
In other instances the only to remove a virus maybe to use an anti-virus program that will perform a boot time scan of your system and delete the file during that scan or when you restart your computer system. Programs such as Avast provide anti-virus desktop programs and virus removal tools, which can be downloaded from Avast.com

Once you downloaded the program, select file and then click on the schedule boot time scan. Next, a dialog box will appear asking you where you want the scan to begin and then, if you want the file deleted, removed to recycle bin or the programs vault. In the case of system files, it will ask if you want to confirm removal. In the case of system chose, chose confirm. Select my computer or C drive. Then the program will ask you if you want to schedule the boot scan now or the next time your system restarts, select now.

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