Computer viruses come in different shapes and sizes, but the only thing they have in common is that they are harmful to your computer. The effects are disparate and this guide shows you how to recognize the typical signs of a viral infection. Remember that even if your computer shows some of these signs, it doesn't mean it's truly infected. Hardware and software problems can exhibit such symptoms.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Part 1: Check Computer Performance
Step 1. Check hard drive activity
If you are not running any programs and the hard drive light keeps blinking, or if you hear the hard drive working, you may have a virus running in the background.
Step 2. Check how long your computer takes to start up
If you find that your computer takes much longer than usual to start up, it could be a virus slowing down the process.
If you can't log into Windows, even with the right information, it's likely a virus has taken control of the logon process
Step 3. Look at the modem lights
If you are not using any programs and the modem lights keep turning on and off, you may have a virus sending data across the network.
Method 2 of 3: Part 2: Keeping an Eye on the Programs
Step 1. Make a note of any programs that are not working well
If the programs you use regularly start crashing more than usual, a virus may have infected your operating system. Programs that are slower to load or run slower are also an indication of a virus.
Step 2. Watch out for popups
If you have a virus, you may start seeing messages appear on the screen, even if you are not running other programs. This could be advertisements, error messages, and more.
Viruses could also change the desktop wallpaper without permission. If you find yourself with a new wallpaper that you didn't choose, chances are you have a virus
Step 3. Be cautious in granting access to the program firewall
If you receive constant messages from a program requesting firewall access, that program may be infected. You are receiving these messages because the program is trying to send data through your router.
Step 4. Check your files
Viruses often delete files and folders, or changes are made without your permission. If your documents go missing, it is very likely that you have a virus.
Step 5. Check your web browser
The web browser may open new main pages and not allow you to close tabs. Pop-ups may appear when you open your browser. This is a clear sign that a virus or spyware has taken control of your browser.
Step 6. Talk to your friends or colleagues
If you have a virus, your contact list may receive messages that you did not send. These messages often contain other viruses or advertisements. If you learn that others are receiving these messages from your email account, you most likely have a virus.
Step 7. Try opening "Task Manager"
Press Ctrl + Alt + Del to open "Windows Task Manager". If you can't access it, a virus may be blocking your access.
Method 3 of 3: Part 3: Caring for a Virus Infection
Step 1. Run an antivirus program
You should always have one on your computer and it should always be active. If you don't have one, there are several free programs, such as AVG or Avast. Download and install one of these programs.
- If you don't have internet access due to the virus, you may need to download the program to another computer and then transfer it to the infected one via a USB stick.
- Many websites have banners claiming you have a virus. These are almost always scams and you should never click on these warnings. Trust only antivirus software installed on your computer to detect viruses on your system.
Step 2. Boot into Safe Mode
The antivirus program will work best when run in Safe Mode. To enter this mode, restart your computer and press the F8 key several times until the Advanced Startup menu appears. Select "Safe Mode" from the menu.
Step 3. Install Windows again
If everything doesn't work and you can't remove the virus with an antivirus program, you'll need to install a copy of Windows and start all over again. Back up all important data and follow this guide to reinstall your operating system.
Advice
- Back up your computer to an external drive, or an internal drive that you can remove from your computer and keep in a safe place.
- If you are downloading something with a name similar to “IMG0018.exe”, it is very likely that it contains a virus.
- DO NOT download email attachments if you are unsure what they are, as this is the primary way the virus is transmitted.
- Update your antivirus software, avoid suspicious sites and don't open emails you don't know the sender of.
