Station17.org

This problem happens all the time. Everyone has downloaded the wrong file or even used a P2P client to get music, videos or software. I’ve always had to work on computers that have had this problem. So first don’t panic. Your information is still there. And you can still back things up and just reinstall windows. This is the easy way. But most of my clients want to do things the hard way.

The hard way meaning Seek and Destroy the virus. Seek and Destroy is a hard task. Never do this unless you have to. But most of my clients ask for this. So lets just get started.


Software is not the only way to do this. I would like to say buying the most expensive software will fix it. But sometimes you get a virus thats unknown. For the most part you can just use some free and easy programs. I use Avast! for my computer. It’s simple and small enough to not slow your PC down. It will do a scan when your computer boots to make sure you PC is ok before you have the virus fight back. And they fight back. Some even download more information so it will be up to date for you next attack. I know this sounds stupid but it’s true. If this software doesn’t work. Try any software from Cnet.com. They have great reviews so you know what your getting. Sometimes you just might have to pay for the good programs. But try the free ones first. I’ll talk about Zombie computers later.

Now if software doesn’t work then your going to have to find out what virus you have. This can be found out by writing down any names that pop up. Even the websites the virus pops up can help. Just type in the website name and the word virus in Google. You should get some web forums that will help you. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again. Tech’s can’t always be up to date on viruses and problems. Tech know what’s wrong and where to look to fix it. That’s it.



Research the websites about how to fix the issue. Now I know it may say use Regedit. This is very advanced so be careful. At this point it would be good to have a friend help you or even contact your PC provider. For help or even options on buying a new one because it’s just old.

Here’s a list of programs I have used.

Avast!
http://www.avast.com/

HijackThis
http://www.trendsecure.com/portal/en-US/tools/security_tools/hijackthis/overview

AVG
http://free.avg.com/

Panda Security (Free Online Scan)
http://www.pandasecurity.com/usa/

Spybot – Search & Destroy
http://www.safer-networking.org/en/index.html

PS. If you still have the virus. Then it’s time to backup your data and reinstall. Saves time and then next time you will lock your system down.