Ways to Fix a Virus and Malware Infected Computer Using DIY Techniques

Is your computer infected with viruses and malware? Don’t panic! With a few do-it-yourself methods, you can effectively repair your computer and eliminate these pesky threats. Viruses and malware can cause a variety of issues, from slowing down your computer to compromising your personal information. It’s important to take action as soon as possible to protect your computer and data.

1. Install Antivirus Software and Run a Scan

The first step in repairing a computer infected with viruses and malware is to install reliable antivirus software. There are many options available, both free and paid. Once installed, update the software to ensure it has the latest virus definitions. After updating, run a full system scan to detect and remove any threats. Antivirus software can help identify and eliminate viruses, trojans, worms, and other malicious software.

2. Use Malware Removal Tools

In addition to antivirus software, you can also use specialized malware removal tools to further clean your computer. These tools are designed specifically to target and remove different types of malware. Some popular options include Malwarebytes, SUPERAntiSpyware, and AdwCleaner. Download and install one or more of these tools, update them, and then run a scan. These tools can often detect and remove malware that antivirus software may miss.

3. Remove Suspicious Programs and Extensions

Viruses and malware often install themselves as suspicious programs or browser extensions. To repair your computer, you should manually remove any programs or extensions that you don’t recognize or trust. Open the Control Panel on your computer and navigate to the “Uninstall a Program” or “Add/Remove Programs” section. Look for any unfamiliar programs and uninstall them. In your web browser’s settings, check the extensions or add-ons section and remove any suspicious ones.

4. Update Your Operating System and Software

Keeping your operating system and software up to date is crucial for computer security. Updates often include important security patches that can protect your computer from viruses and malware. Make sure to regularly check for updates from the official websites or through the software’s built-in update feature. Enable automatic updates if available to ensure you’re always running the latest version of your operating system and software.

Remember, prevention is key to avoiding future infections. Practice safe browsing habits, avoid sketchy websites and downloads, and be cautious when opening email attachments. Regularly backup your important files to an external storage device or cloud service to safeguard your data. By following these DIY methods and implementing preventive measures, you can repair your infected computer and keep it secure in the future.

Identifying Signs of Infection

When your computer is infected with viruses and malware, it can exhibit a range of concerning behaviors. By recognizing the signs of infection, you can take action to resolve the issue and protect your system.

Slow Performance: One common sign of infection is a noticeable decrease in your computer’s performance. If your computer suddenly becomes slow, takes longer to open programs, or freezes frequently, it could be a result of malware running in the background.

Unexpected Pop-ups: Another sign of infection is the appearance of unexpected pop-ups or advertisements while browsing the internet. These pop-ups may be disguised as legitimate ads or warnings, but clicking on them can lead to further infection or the installation of additional malware.

Changed Browser Settings: If your browser homepage or default search engine has changed without your permission, it could indicate the presence of malware. Some viruses and malware programs modify browser settings to redirect your searches to malicious websites or to track your online activities.

Unusual Network Activity: Infections can also cause your computer to exhibit unusual network activity. This may include excessive data usage, unexpected network connections, or the appearance of unfamiliar processes in your task manager. These activities could indicate that your computer is under the control of a remote attacker.

Disabled Anti-virus or Firewall: Malware often targets and disables anti-virus or firewall software to avoid detection and removal. If you notice that your anti-virus program or firewall has been turned off or is experiencing issues, it could be a sign that your system has been compromised.

Unexplained Files or Programs: If you come across unfamiliar files, folders, or programs on your computer, it could indicate an infection. Viruses and malware often create hidden files or disguise themselves as legitimate software, so it’s important to regularly review your system for any suspicious additions.

If you notice any of these signs or suspect your computer is infected, it is crucial to take immediate action to safeguard your data and system. Following the appropriate DIY methods for virus and malware removal can help mitigate the impact of infections and restore your computer’s security.

Unusual System Behavior

If your computer is infected with viruses or malware, you may notice some unusual system behavior. These signs can indicate that something is wrong with your computer and you should take immediate action to address the issue. Here are some common signs of a potentially infected computer:

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take action immediately to prevent further damage to your computer and protect your personal information. In the next sections, we will discuss various DIY methods to repair a computer infected with viruses and malware.

Slow Performance

If your computer is running slow, it could be a sign of a virus or malware infection. Viruses and malware can consume system resources, causing your computer to lag and take longer to respond to commands. There are a few DIY methods you can try to improve the performance of your infected computer:

1. Run a full system scan with a reputable antivirus software. This will help detect and remove any viruses or malware that may be causing the slow performance.

2. Remove unnecessary startup programs. Some programs are set to automatically start when you boot up your computer, which can slow down the startup process. Go to the Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), click on the Startup tab, and disable any programs that you don’t need to run at startup.

3. Clear temporary files and cache. Over time, temporary files and cached data can accumulate and affect the performance of your computer. Use the Disk Cleanup tool to delete these files. Go to the Start menu, search for “Disk Cleanup,” and follow the prompts to clean up your system.

4. Check for and install any available software updates. Updating your operating system and software can improve performance and security. Go to the settings or control panel of your computer and check for updates.

5. Upgrade your hardware. If none of the above methods improve the performance of your infected computer, it may be time to consider upgrading your hardware. Adding more RAM or replacing your hard drive with a solid-state drive (SSD) can significantly improve the speed and responsiveness of your computer.

Remember to always keep your antivirus software up to date and regularly scan your computer for viruses and malware to prevent future infections and maintain optimal performance.

Excessive Pop-ups

Excessive pop-ups are a common symptom of a computer infected with viruses and malware. These annoying windows that suddenly appear on your screen can disrupt your browsing experience and make it difficult to navigate through websites.

Pop-ups can be caused by malicious code that is embedded in websites or by adware installed on your computer. They often contain intrusive advertisements or links to potentially harmful websites. It is important to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage to your computer and protect your personal information.

To deal with excessive pop-ups, you can follow these DIY methods:

1. Install an ad blocker: A good ad blocker can effectively block pop-ups and prevent them from appearing on your screen. There are many ad blocking extensions available for popular web browsers like Chrome and Firefox.

2. Disable JavaScript: Some pop-ups are triggered by JavaScript code on websites. You can disable JavaScript in your browser settings to prevent these pop-ups. Keep in mind that this may also affect the functionality of some websites.

3. Clear your browser cache: Clearing your browser cache can help remove any stored data or cookies that may be causing the pop-ups. This can be done through the browser settings or preferences.

4. Scan your computer for malware: Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware software to scan your computer for any infections. These programs can help detect and remove any malicious files that may be causing the excessive pop-ups.

5. Update your operating system and software: Keeping your operating system and software up to date is essential for maintaining the security of your computer. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malware.

6. Be cautious when downloading and installing software: Avoid downloading software from untrusted sources and be cautious during the installation process. Read the terms and conditions, opt-out of any additional bundled software, and choose custom installation to prevent unwanted programs from being installed along with the desired software.

7. Educate yourself about safe browsing habits: Being knowledgeable about safe browsing habits can go a long way in protecting your computer from malware. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from unknown sources, and be wary of email attachments from unfamiliar senders.

By following these methods, you can effectively deal with excessive pop-ups and restore the security and usability of your computer.

Running Antivirus Scans

One of the most effective ways to repair a computer infected with viruses and malware is to run antivirus scans. Antivirus software is designed to detect and remove malicious programs from your computer, helping to keep your system clean and protected.

Here are some steps you can follow to run antivirus scans and repair your infected computer:

1. Update your antivirus software: Before running a scan, make sure your antivirus software is up to date. Most antivirus programs regularly release updates to stay current with the latest threats.
2. Perform a full system scan: Open your antivirus software and look for the option to perform a full system scan. This scan will thoroughly examine all files and folders on your computer for any signs of viruses or malware.
3. Quarantine or remove any detected threats: If the scan detects any viruses or malware, follow the instructions provided by your antivirus software to quarantine or remove the threats. Quarantining isolates the infected files, while removal deletes them from your computer entirely.
4. Restart your computer: After completing the antivirus scan and removing any threats, it’s a good idea to restart your computer. This helps ensure that any remaining traces of viruses or malware are completely eliminated.
5. Enable real-time protection: To prevent future infections, enable the real-time protection feature offered by your antivirus software. This feature actively monitors your computer for malicious activity and can help block threats before they have a chance to infect your system.

Remember to regularly update your antivirus software and run scans to keep your computer protected against emerging threats. Additionally, practice safe browsing habits, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and only download files from trusted sources to reduce the risk of infecting your computer.

If your computer remains infected or you’re unable to repair it on your own, consider seeking professional help or contacting the customer support for your antivirus software for further assistance.

Choosing a Reliable Antivirus Program

When it comes to repairing a computer infected with viruses and malware, one of the most important steps is to choose a reliable antivirus program. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which program to trust with protecting your computer and removing the malicious software.

The first thing to consider when choosing an antivirus program is its reputation. Look for programs that are well-known and have a solid track record in the industry. Reading reviews and checking independent tests can help you gauge the effectiveness and reliability of different antivirus programs.

Another crucial factor to look for is real-time protection. A good antivirus program should be capable of providing continuous monitoring and protection against threats as they occur. This means that the program should be able to detect and remove malware in real-time, preventing any damage to your computer.

In addition to real-time protection, it is also important to choose an antivirus program that offers regular updates. The threat landscape is constantly evolving, and new viruses and malware are emerging all the time. An antivirus program that provides regular updates will ensure that it remains effective against the latest threats.

Furthermore, consider the additional features offered by the antivirus program. Some programs may offer features such as a firewall, password manager, or secure browsing tools. These additional features can add an extra layer of security to your computer.

Lastly, consider the system requirements and compatibility of the antivirus program. Make sure that the program is compatible with your operating system and does not require excessive system resources that may slow down your computer.

Choosing a reliable antivirus program is crucial for effectively repairing a computer infected with viruses and malware. By considering factors such as reputation, real-time protection, regular updates, additional features, and system compatibility, you can choose an antivirus program that will effectively protect your computer and remove any malicious software.

Performing Full System Scans

One of the most important steps in repairing a computer infected with viruses and malware is to perform a full system scan. This will help identify and remove any malicious files or programs that may be lurking on your computer.

There are several antivirus software programs available that can perform full system scans. One popular option is Avast. To perform a full system scan using Avast, follow these steps:

Avast will then scan your entire system for any viruses or malware. This process may take some time, depending on the size of your hard drive and the number of files on your computer.

Another popular antivirus software program is Malwarebytes. To perform a full system scan using Malwarebytes, follow these steps:

Malwarebytes will then scan your entire system for any threats or malware. Once again, this process may take some time.

It is important to regularly perform full system scans to ensure that your computer is free of viruses and malware. Additionally, it is recommended to keep your antivirus software up to date to ensure it can detect and remove the latest threats.

Regularly Updating Antivirus Software

One of the most important steps you can take to protect your computer from viruses and malware is to regularly update your antivirus software. Antivirus software works by identifying and removing malicious files and programs that can harm your computer.

Software developers constantly release updates to their antivirus programs, which include new virus definitions and patches to address any vulnerabilities. By regularly updating your antivirus software, you ensure that your computer is equipped with the latest protection against emerging threats.

To update your antivirus software, you typically need to open the program and navigate to the settings or preferences menu. Look for an option that allows you to check for updates or enable automatic updates. It’s recommended to enable automatic updates so that your antivirus software can download and install updates in the background without requiring your intervention.

Updating your antivirus software not only protects your computer from viruses and malware, but it also helps improve the overall performance and efficiency of the program. Updates often include bug fixes and performance optimizations that can enhance the scanning and detection capabilities of the software.

Additionally, keeping your antivirus software up to date is crucial because new viruses and malware are constantly being developed by cybercriminals. If your antivirus software is outdated, it may not be able to recognize and remove the latest threats effectively.

It’s worth mentioning that updating your antivirus software is just one part of a comprehensive approach to computer security. It’s also essential to practice safe browsing habits, avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources, and regularly scan your computer for any potential infections.

Removing Malware Manually

If your computer is infected with malware, it’s important to take immediate action to remove it. While there are many software tools available to help with malware removal, sometimes manually removing the malware can be more effective. Here are some steps to help you remove malware manually:

1. Identify and research the malware: Start by identifying the malware that has infected your computer. Look for any suspicious programs, files, or processes running on your system. Once identified, research the particular malware to understand its behavior and the best methods for removing it.

2. Disconnect from the internet: It’s important to disconnect your computer from the internet to prevent the malware from accessing your personal information or spreading to other devices on your network.

3. Boot into safe mode: Restart your computer and enter safe mode. This will prevent any unnecessary programs or processes from running and allow for a more thorough cleanup process.

4. Remove suspicious programs and files: Use the control panel or a trusted antivirus program to uninstall any suspicious programs from your computer. Additionally, manually delete any suspicious files or folders that you have identified during your research.

5. Clean up your web browsers: Malware often affects web browsers by changing their settings or installing unwanted extensions. Open your web browsers and remove any unknown or suspicious extensions, and reset the browser settings to default.

6. Scan for remaining malware: Once you have removed the identified malware, it’s important to scan your computer with a reputable antivirus program to ensure that no other malware is present. This will help catch any hidden or residual malware that may still be on your system.

7. Update your security software and operating system: After removing the malware, make sure to update your security software and operating system to the latest versions. This will help protect your computer from future infections.

8. Change your passwords: As an additional security measure, it’s important to change your passwords for any online accounts that may have been compromised. Use strong, unique passwords to help prevent future unauthorized access to your accounts.

Remember, manually removing malware can be a complex process and may not be suitable for all users. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with performing these steps yourself, it’s advisable to seek professional help from a computer technician or use reputable software tools for malware removal.

Booting in Safe Mode

One of the first steps to take when dealing with a computer infected with viruses and malware is to boot the system in Safe Mode. Safe Mode starts the computer with only essential programs and services, allowing you to troubleshoot issues and remove malicious software more effectively.

To boot your PC in Safe Mode, follow these steps:

1. Turn off your computer completely by clicking on the “Start” button and selecting “Shut Down”.
2. Wait for a few seconds and then turn on your computer again.
3. As your computer starts up, repeatedly press the “F8” key until the “Advanced Boot Options” menu appears.
4. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to select “Safe Mode” from the menu.
5. Press the “Enter” key to start your computer in Safe Mode.

Once your computer is in Safe Mode, you can run a full system scan using your antivirus software. This scan will help detect and remove any viruses or malware that may be causing issues on your computer.

Remember that Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode, and some functionality may be limited compared to normal operation. However, it provides a secure environment for troubleshooting and removing infections without interference from malicious software.

If your computer is still experiencing issues after scanning and removing viruses in Safe Mode, it may be necessary to seek professional help or use additional advanced troubleshooting steps.

Identifying and Deleting Malicious Files

When your computer is infected with viruses and malware, it’s important to identify and delete the malicious files to fully remove the threats. Here are some steps you can follow to accomplish this:

1. Run a reputable antivirus software: Start by running a full system scan using a reliable antivirus program. This will help detect any infected files on your computer.

2. Check the file extensions: Malicious files often have unusual or suspicious file extensions. Some common examples include .exe, .bat, .dll, .vbs, and .pif. If you come across any files with these extensions that you do not recognize, it’s best to delete them.

3. Look for files in suspicious locations: Malware often hides in specific folders or directories on your computer. These can include temporary folders, system folders, or folders with random names. Use your antivirus software to scan these locations and delete any suspicious files found.

4. Use online virus scanners: In addition to your installed antivirus software, you can also use online virus scanners for an extra layer of protection. These scanners can detect and delete malicious files that your installed software may have missed.

5. Check startup programs: Malware often adds itself to your computer’s startup programs to ensure it runs every time your computer boots up. Use the Task Manager or the System Configuration utility to review the list of startup programs and disable or delete any suspicious entries.

6. Monitor running processes: Sometimes malware disguises itself as legitimate processes. Use the Task Manager to monitor running processes and identify any suspicious ones. If you find any, you can right-click on them and choose to end the process.

7. Empty the Recycle Bin: Once you have identified and deleted the malicious files, remember to empty the Recycle Bin to permanently remove them from your computer.

By following these steps, you can effectively identify and delete malicious files from your infected computer. However, it’s important to note that manual removal methods may not always be sufficient, and it may be necessary to seek professional help or use specialized tools to completely clean your system of viruses and malware.

Modifying Registry Settings

Modifying registry settings can be a helpful DIY method to repair a computer infected with viruses and malware. The Windows Registry is a crucial part of the operating system and contains important settings and configurations for various software and hardware components.

Please note that modifying registry settings can be risky and should be done with caution. Incorrect changes to the registry can cause serious system issues, so it is recommended to back up the registry or create a system restore point before making any modifications.

Here are the steps to modify registry settings:

1. Open the Registry Editor: Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit and press Enter.
2. Navigate to the desired registry key: Use the left-hand pane in the Registry Editor to navigate to the specific registry key you want to modify.
3. Backup the registry key (optional): Right-click on the key and select Export. Choose a location to save the backup file and provide a name for it. This ensures that you can restore the original settings if anything goes wrong.
4. Make the necessary changes: Double-click on the registry key to view its properties. Modify the desired values or data within the key according to your requirements.
5. Save the changes: After making the necessary modifications, close the Registry Editor. The changes will be saved automatically.

Caution: It is important to be careful when modifying registry settings. If you are unsure about a specific key or its purpose, it is recommended to research or seek professional assistance to avoid potential system issues.

Modifying registry settings can be a powerful tool to repair a computer infected with viruses and malware, but it should only be attempted by experienced users who understand the potential risks and consequences.

Using System Restore

If your computer has been infected with viruses and malware, one DIY solution to repair it is to use the System Restore feature. System Restore is a built-in tool in Windows operating systems that allows you to revert your computer’s settings back to a previous point in time, known as a restore point.

To use System Restore:

1. Open the Control Panel on your computer and search for “System Restore” in the search bar.
2. Click on the “System Restore” option that appears, and a new window will open.
3. In the System Restore window, you will see a list of available restore points. These are points in time when your computer’s settings were saved.
4. Select a restore point that was created before your computer became infected with viruses and malware.
5. Click on the “Scan for affected programs” option to see a list of programs that may be affected by the restore process. Review the list and determine if you want to proceed with the restore.
6. Click on the “Next” button and then “Finish” to start the restore process.
7. Your computer will restart and the restore process will begin. It may take some time for the process to complete.
8. Once the restore process is finished, your computer will restart again, and it should be restored to the chosen restore point.

It is important to note that using System Restore will not remove the viruses and malware from your computer. It will only restore your computer’s settings to a previous point in time. Therefore, it is recommended to use System Restore in combination with other antivirus and malware removal tools to fully restore and protect your computer.

Creating a Restore Point

Creating a restore point is an important step to take before attempting to repair a computer infected with viruses and malware. A restore point is a snapshot of your computer’s system files, settings, and configuration at a specific moment in time.

To create a restore point, follow these steps:

1. Click on the Start menu and search for “Restore Point” in the search bar.
2. Open the “Create a restore point” option that appears in the search results.
3. A new window will open, displaying the “System Protection” tab.
4. Select the drive you want to create the restore point for (usually the C: drive).
5. Click on the “Create” button at the bottom of the window.
6. Enter a name for the restore point in the provided field. Make sure to choose a descriptive name that indicates the current state of your computer.
7. Click on the “Create” button to initiate the restore point creation process.
8. Wait for the process to complete. This may take a few minutes.
9. Once the restore point is created, you will see a confirmation message.

Creating a restore point provides a safety net in case anything goes wrong during the virus and malware removal process. If the repairs cause further issues or if critical files are accidentally deleted, you can revert your computer back to the state it was in when the restore point was created.

It is important to note that creating a restore point does not remove any viruses or malware from your computer. It simply preserves a snapshot of your system in case you need to undo any changes.

By creating a restore point before attempting any repairs, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have a fallback option in case something goes wrong.

Restoring the System to a Previous Point

If your computer is infected with viruses and malware, restoring the system to a previous point can help resolve the issue. This method allows you to revert the computer’s settings and files back to a state where it was not infected. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to restore the system to a previous point:

1. Accessing System Restore: First, you need to access the System Restore feature on your computer. To do this, type “system restore” in the Windows search bar and click on the “Create a restore point” option from the search results.
2. Selecting a Restore Point: In the System Properties window, click on the “System Restore” button. This will open the System Restore wizard. From there, select a restore point that was created before your computer became infected with viruses and malware. It is recommended to choose the most recent restore point available.
3. Starting the Restoration Process: Once you have selected the desired restore point, click on the “Next” button to start the restoration process. Make sure to save any unsaved work before proceeding.
4. Confirming the Restoration: Before the restoration begins, you will be presented with a summary of the selected restore point. Take a moment to review the information and ensure that you have selected the correct restore point. Click on the “Finish” button to confirm and start the restoration process.
5. Restarting the Computer: The system restore process may take some time to complete. Once it is finished, your computer will automatically restart. Allow the computer to restart and log in to your user account.

Note: Restoring the system to a previous point will revert your computer’s settings and files back to the state they were in at the selected restore point. This means that any changes or files added after the restore point will be lost. It is important to back up any important files before proceeding with the system restore.

By following these steps, you can effectively restore your computer’s system to a previous point and remove viruses and malware infections. Remember to regularly update your antivirus software and practice safe browsing habits to prevent future infections.

Checking for Malware Persistence

Once you have completed a malware scan and removed any threats, it is important to check for malware persistence. Malware persistence refers to the ability of malware to reinstall itself on your computer even after you have removed it.

Here are a few steps you can take to check for malware persistence:

1. Run a Full System Scan: It is always a good idea to run another full system scan with your antivirus software after removing malware to ensure that no traces of it remain on your computer.

2. Monitor System Performance: Keep a close eye on your computer’s performance and behavior. If you notice any unusual activity, such as slow performance, frequent crashes, or strange pop-ups, it could be a sign of malware persistence.

3. Check Startup Programs: Malware often adds itself to the list of startup programs, which allows it to run automatically every time you start your computer. Open the Task Manager or System Configuration Utility (msconfig) to check the list of startup programs and disable any suspicious entries.

4. Examine Running Processes: Use the Task Manager to examine the list of running processes on your computer. Look for any unfamiliar or suspicious processes that could be related to malware. If you find any, research them online to determine whether they are safe or malicious.

5. Check Browser Extensions: Malware can sometimes install browser extensions that monitor your online activities and display unwanted ads. Open your browser settings and review the list of installed extensions. Disable or remove any extensions that you do not recognize or trust.

6. Update Software: Keeping your operating system, antivirus software, and other programs up to date is crucial for preventing malware persistence. Malware often exploits vulnerabilities in outdated software. Make sure to regularly install updates and patches from trusted sources.

7. Use Additional Security Tools: Consider using additional security tools, such as anti-malware scanners or firewalls, to further protect your computer from malware persistence. These tools can provide an extra layer of defense against potential threats.

By taking these steps and regularly practicing good cybersecurity hygiene, you can help ensure that your computer remains free from malware and other malicious threats.

Updating Operating System and Software

One important step in repairing a computer infected with viruses and malware is to ensure that your operating system and software are up to date. This is because outdated software can have security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by viruses and malware.

To update the operating system, you can typically use the built-in update functionality in the operating system itself. For Windows users, this can be found by going to the “Settings” menu and selecting “Update & Security”. From there, you can check for and install any available updates. Mac users can find the update functionality in the “System Preferences” menu, under the “Software Update” option. It is recommended to set the operating system to automatically check for updates to ensure that you are always running the latest version.

In addition to updating the operating system, it is also important to keep your software up to date. This includes web browsers, antivirus programs, and any other software you use regularly. Outdated software can also have security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by viruses and malware.

To update software, you can usually check for updates within the software itself. Many programs have a “Check for Updates” option in the Help or Settings menu. Alternatively, you can visit the software’s website to download and install the latest version. It is recommended to enable automatic updates for software whenever possible to ensure that you are always using the most secure and up-to-date version.

Updating your operating system and software is an essential step in repairing a computer infected with viruses and malware. By keeping your system and software up to date, you can help protect against future infections and ensure the security of your computer.

Enabling Automatic Updates

Automatic updates are essential for keeping your computer protected against the latest threats. By enabling automatic updates, your computer will receive and install the latest security patches and bug fixes from the operating system and software manufacturers.

To enable automatic updates on your computer, follow these steps:

1. Click on the Start button and open the Settings app.
2. In the Settings app, click on the Update & Security option.
3. From the left-hand menu, select Windows Update.
4. Click on the Change Active Hours link to specify the time range when your computer is in use and should not be restarted for updates.
5. Click on the Advanced options link.
6. Under the Automatic Updates section, click on the toggle switch to turn on the option that says Automatically download updates even over metered data connections (charges may apply).
7. Make sure the Receive updates for other Microsoft products when you update Windows option is also turned on.
8. Finally, click on the Check for updates button to manually check for new updates and start the automatic update process.

Note: It is important to keep your computer connected to a stable internet connection, as automatic updates require internet access to download and install the necessary updates.

By enabling automatic updates, you can ensure that your computer stays protected from the latest viruses and malware, as well as benefit from performance improvements and new features that may be included in the updates.

Updating All Installed Programs

One of the key steps in repairing a computer infected with viruses and malware is to ensure that all installed programs are up to date. Outdated software often contains vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malware, so it is crucial to regularly update all programs on your computer.

Start by checking for updates in your operating system. Most operating systems have an option to automatically download and install updates. You can also manually check for updates by navigating to the settings or preferences section of your operating system.

In addition to updating the operating system, it is important to update all installed applications and programs. This includes web browsers, antivirus software, media players, and any other programs you use regularly. Many programs have built-in update features that allow you to easily check for and install updates.

Updating all installed programs not only ensures that you have access to the latest features and improvements, but it also helps to patch any security vulnerabilities that may exist. Cybercriminals often target outdated software specifically because they know these vulnerabilities can be exploited.

When installing updates, it is important to download them directly from the official website or trusted sources. Avoid clicking on pop-up ads or downloading updates from unfamiliar websites, as these can potentially be infected with malware.

In conclusion, keeping all installed programs up to date is a critical part of repairing a computer infected with viruses and malware. Regularly checking for and installing updates helps to ensure that your computer is protected against the latest security threats and that you have access to the latest features and improvements.

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