Removing malware from a Windows 64-bit PC is remarkably simple. Why? No rootkits.
In this post I’m going to show you how to remove viruses, rogues (fake anti-virus), trojans, spyware, adware and other nasties from a Windows Vista or Windows 7 64-bit PC.
First, the requirements:
Software:
Helpful Links:
- How to reset your Windows proxy settings. Malware usually turns on a proxy setting which can prevent you from accessing the internet once the malware has been removed.
- EF.REG. EF (short for .exe fix) can reset your registry’s .exe settings in case your .exe’s are not working when you double click them.
Things To Do Before You Start the Removal Process:
- Backup Critical Documents.
- Backup Your Registry.
- Create a System Restore Point (you’ll delete this restore point once you verify your PC is working).
Download Updates for MalwareBytes and SuperAntiSpyware in-case the malware prevents you from accessing the internet. You should only download these updates if you cannot access the internet (for an online update)
Create a CD with:
- Malwarebytes
- SuperAntiSpyware
- MalwareBytes Rules and SuperAntiSpyware Rules
- Dr. Web’s CureIT
Ok, let’s begin.
- We need to start your PC in SafeMode with Networking. Turn your PC on and begin tapping the F8 key until you see a black screen with white text in rows. Using your up/down arrows select Safe Mode with Networking. Click Enter.
- After a brief flicker of text you’ll see a login screen with words stating that you’re in Safe Mode. (this screen and/or entry may vary).
- Turn off any proxy servers. Refer to this article on how to turn off the IE proxy settings.
- Install MalwareBytes and then try to update it. If the update doesn’t work then install mbam-rules.exe (from the download above or via your CD). Run a quick scan and remove anything it finds (click show results to see infected items).
- Reboot and enter SafeMode with Networking (see step 1 again).
- Install SuperAntiSpyware and the try to update. Once again, if the update fails load, then install the SAS manual update from the link above (or your CD). Run a quick scan and remove anything it finds.
- Reboot and enter SafeMode with Networking (see step 1 again).
- Step 8 is optional. If you feel that you may still be infected then run a full scan of your OS drive (c:) with Dr Web’s CureIT. This usually isn’t needed but sometimes it’s nice to have a 3rd opinion.
- Reboot into normal mode.
- Consider replacing your current anti-malware solution (because it’s obviously not working for ya).
Closing Notes:
If you actually needed this article then your current Anti-Malware solution is not giving you enough protection. If you want a truly solid solution then grab a copy of either Kaspersky Internet Security or Norton Internet Security (2010 or later).
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