Windows Malware and Virus Removal Guide

Safely Remove Malware from Windows 10 and Windows 11

Malware infections can cause pop-ups, browser redirects, slow performance, and disabled security tools.

This guide focuses on safe, built-in Windows tools first, followed by additional cleanup steps.

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

This prevents further infection or data loss.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

1. Hold Shift and click Restart

2. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings

3. Select Safe Mode with Networking

Step 3: Run Microsoft Defender Full Scan

1. Open Windows Security

2. Select Virus & threat protection

3. Click Scan options

4. Run a Full scan

Step 4: Remove Malicious Browser Extensions

1. Open your browser extensions page

2. Remove unknown or suspicious extensions

Step 5: Reset Browser Settings

Reset restores default security settings.

Step 6: Check Startup Programs

1. Open Task Manager > Startup

2. Disable unknown entries

After Malware Removal

• Change passwords

• Update Windows fully

• Enable real-time protection

Return to the Top 50 Windows Computer Problems hub for additional security issues.