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๐Ÿฆ  How to Remove a Virus from Windows (Free, 2026)

Updated: March 2026 ยท 5 min read

Think your PC has a virus? Follow these steps in order. You don't need to pay for software โ€” free tools are enough.

Signs You Have Malware

  • PC suddenly much slower than usual
  • Browser homepage changed without permission
  • Unexpected pop-up ads, even on desktop
  • Programs opening by themselves
  • High CPU/RAM usage when doing nothing

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

Unplug Ethernet or turn off Wi-Fi. This stops malware from sending your data or downloading more malware.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Hold Shift and click Restart โ†’ Troubleshoot โ†’ Advanced options โ†’ Startup Settings โ†’ Restart โ†’ Press 4 for Safe Mode. Malware often can't run in Safe Mode.

Step 3: Run Windows Defender Full Scan

Windows Security โ†’ Virus & threat protection โ†’ Scan options โ†’ Full scan โ†’ Scan now. This checks every file on your PC.

Step 4: Run Malwarebytes Free

Download Malwarebytes from malwarebytes.com (official site only). Run a Threat Scan. It catches things Defender misses.

Step 5: Reset Browser Settings

In Chrome: Settings โ†’ Reset and clean up โ†’ Restore settings to defaults. In Firefox: Help โ†’ More troubleshooting information โ†’ Refresh Firefox.

Step 6: Check Startup Programs for Suspicious Entries

Task Manager โ†’ Startup apps. Research any entry you don't recognize before disabling.

Full Malware Removal Guide โ†’