How to Fix a Computer with a Virus

Although computers provide their users with the ability to perform many complex tasks and communicate with other users through a wide variety of media, they are only as good as the software that runs them. Because of this, computers are often weakened by viruses and other forms of malicious software that can decrease the computer’s performance, put the user’s personal information at risk, or cause the computer to stop working altogether. By frequently running antivirus software, installing a real-time antivirus shield, and keeping an updated database of potential threats, a user can ensure that his/her computer does not fall prey to malicious software.
Spyware Terminator
Spyware Terminator is a free antivirus software that allows a user to perform both quick and full scans of his/her computer. Spyware Terminator includes a real-time shield that allows the user to decide which programs are allowed to run and has the ability to save the user’s options for later use when it recognizes a similar program. However, the real-time shield can produce excessive notifications. Spyware Terminator also includes a shield for the user’s Internet browser, known as ClamAV, but will only work with Internet Explorer. Spyware Terminator includes a comprehensive database of malicious software, can be set to automatically update itself, and can be set to automatically run scans at specific times.
Malwarebytes’ Antimalware
Malwarebytes’ Antimalware is another free antivirus software. While Malwarebytes’ Antimalware does not have a real-time shield, it is capable of finding more malicious software than Spyware Terminator and can perform scans much faster. However, Malwarebytes’ Antimalware is not capable of detecting all viruses and is, consequently, often used in conjunction with Spyware Terminator or another antivirus software.
Spybot Search and Destroy
Spybot Search and Destroy is a free antivirus software that can run relatively quick scans and find a wide variety of malicious software, including adware, spyware, trojans, and worms. Spybot Search and Destroy also has the ability of repairing weaknesses in the user’s firewall and can scan a user’s Internet browser for possible threats.
Advanced System Care
While any of the above antivirus software can be effective at restoring the user’s privacy and security, Advanced System Care includes more features than any of them. Advanced System Care includes its own antivirus software that can run extremely fast scans of the user’s computer, a real-time shield, a registry cleaner, a defragmenter, and functions for deleting the user’s browser history and other personally identifiable information.