Having a computer virus can be annoying and potentially dangerous. However, you may be able to detect and remove a virus yourself before taking your computer in for professional repair. Here are some tips for determining if your computer has a virus.
Look for Unusual Behavior
The most obvious sign of a virus is if your computer starts behaving strangely. Here are some unusual behaviors to look out for:
-
Slow performance – If your computer takes a long time to start up or open programs, it could indicate a virus. Viruses often run tasks in the background that eat up system resources.
-
Pop-up ads – If you notice a sudden increase in pop-up ads, even on reputable websites, it could point to an adware infection. Adware viruses force your browser to display unwanted ads.
-
Sluggish internet – A virus may communicate with its server over the internet, slowing down your connection speed.
-
Freezing or crashing – General instability like freezing, crashing, or blue screen errors could stem from a virus.
-
Unfamiliar processes – Check your operating system’s process manager for any unfamiliar or suspicious looking processes. Viruses often run executable files.
Scan for Malware
The most definitive way to check for a virus is to run a virus scan using antivirus software. Here are some tips for scanning your computer:
-
Use trusted antivirus software like Avast, AVG, or Malwarebytes. Make sure to download it from the official source.
-
Update your antivirus software to the latest virus definitions before scanning. This helps it detect new viruses.
-
Run a full system scan to check all files, not just a quick scan. Full scans take longer but are more thorough.
-
Quarantine or delete any infections the antivirus finds. Be careful not to disable your antivirus software afterward, or infections could return.
Look for Suspicious Files
You can also inspect your computer manually for suspicious files that point to a virus:
-
Open Windows Explorer and look for random executable files (.exe and .dll) in folders like Program Files. Avoid running unknown .exes.
-
Check your startup folders, like the Startup menu, for unwanted programs loading on boot. Viruses often add themselves to startup.
-
In Windows, find suspicious registry entries using the Run and RunOnce keys in Regedit. Malware likes hiding here.
-
Temp folders, like %temp%, are common virus hiding spots. Though some files here are valid, malicious ones may stand out.
Monitor Browser Extensions
Browser hijackers are common and can modify browser settings. Watch for these signs:
-
Open your browser addons/extensions manager. Look for anything unfamiliar or unwanted.
-
Make sure your homepage and search engine haven’t been changed without your knowledge.
-
Check for any new toolbar or search bars you don’t remember adding.
Restore From Backup
If scanning does detect a virus but fails to remove it, you may need to do a full system restore. Try restoring from a backup made before the infection began. This can completely clean the virus from your computer.
Just be diligent in watching for unusual computer behavior and scan regularly with antivirus software. That should help you detect and deal with any virus infection before it gets out of hand. Taking quick action can often resolve the issue without professional repair.
