Types of malware and what they do
| Type | What it does | Common signs |
|---|---|---|
| Adware | Injects ads, changes browser settings | Extra ads, popup banners, slow browser |
| Browser hijack | Changes search engine, homepage, redirects searches | Wrong search results, unknown homepage |
| Trojan | Gives remote access, downloads more malware | Slow PC, unexpected activity, disabled security |
| Spyware | Records keystrokes, passwords, browsing | Often no obvious signs |
| Ransomware | Encrypts files, demands payment | Files locked, ransom message on screen |
| Cryptominer | Uses your CPU/GPU to mine cryptocurrency | PC very slow, fan constantly running, high CPU at idle |
How to remove a virus from your PC — step by step
- Disconnect from the internet. Turn off WiFi or unplug the network cable. This prevents the malware from downloading more threats or sending your data while you are cleaning up.
- Do not pay anything. If you see a ransom message or a popup asking for payment, close it. Do not call numbers in popups. Do not enter payment details.
- Run a full Windows Defender scan. Open Windows Security → Virus and Threat Protection → Scan Options → Full Scan. This can take 30–60 minutes depending on drive size. Remove any detected threats.
- Run Malwarebytes Free. Download from malwarebytes.com on a clean device, transfer via USB if needed, install and run a Threat Scan. Malwarebytes catches many adware and browser hijack threats that Defender may miss.
- Restart the PC. Many malware components are only fully removed after a restart. Check if symptoms have cleared.
- Clean up the browser. If the browser still shows wrong homepages or redirects, check browser extensions (Settings → Extensions) and remove anything you do not recognise. Reset the browser homepage and search engine to your preference.
- Change important passwords — on a different device. Use your phone or a different computer to change passwords for email, banking and any accounts that may have been compromised while the infection was active.
- Update Windows and software. Apply any outstanding Windows updates and update installed software. Many infections exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software.
When to book professional virus removal
DIY tools handle the majority of common adware and browser hijack infections. But some situations need a technician:
- Ransomware has encrypted your files.
- Symptoms continue after scanning and browser cleanup.
- Windows Defender and Windows Update have been disabled and cannot be re-enabled.
- You suspect banking credentials or personal accounts have been accessed.
- A popup told you to call a number and you did call — account details may have been given to scammers.
- The PC is needed for work and you need complete confidence the infection is gone.
Geeks On Call provides professional virus removal and malware cleanup for Auckland PCs and laptops. A proper cleanup goes beyond scanning — it covers browser settings, startup items, Windows security state, scheduled tasks and post-removal verification.
Virus removal FAQ
How do I know if my PC has a virus?
Slow performance with no programs open, unexpected popups, browser homepage changes, programs you did not install, disabled security software and unusual network activity are common signs.
Is Windows Defender enough to remove viruses?
For many common threats, yes. For adware and browser hijacks, running Malwarebytes Free as a second scan gives more complete coverage. For serious infections, professional cleanup is more reliable.
What should I do after removing a virus?
Change passwords for email and important accounts on a different device. Update Windows and software. Review browser extensions. Check bank statements. Run a second scan to confirm clean.
Should I factory reset to remove a virus?
A factory reset is effective but means losing all installed programs and data unless backed up. Try scanning first. If the infection persists, a professional cleanup is usually faster and recovers the PC without losing your data.
Can you remove viruses from PCs in Auckland?
Yes. Call Geeks On Call with the symptoms. We provide professional malware removal, browser cleanup and post-removal verification for Auckland customers.