A program for cleaning your computer from viruses. One-time antiviruses for quickly scanning your computer
In this short review we will look at several applications that have been considered the best. These utilities will allow you to quickly detect and easily remove malware from your computer running Windows 10, 8, 7, XP.
How to remove malware
Currently, malware is widespread, as it uses a fairly simple method of infiltrating a user’s computer. These are not Trojans or vulnerabilities, but simple deception. Almost every one of us has installed a free application at least once. So, most often, such applications allow malware to penetrate the user’s computer, since the malware is simply integrated into their installer. When you install a free program, a bonus is installed - malware. But, we must add here that there are cases when paid programs also contain malicious programs, most often adware.
I would also like to remind you that malware poses a very serious threat, as it can cause great harm to your computer: damage or encrypt files on it, install a module or extension in the browser that will change its settings or begin to show a huge amount of intrusive advertising, and what else. not least important, it can work as a spy, collect detailed information about you, which will later be transferred to third parties. Therefore, it is obvious that the presence of malware on your
It is undesirable on your computer; it must be deleted immediately after being found.
The best malware removal utilities
Not all antivirus programs are good at detecting and removing malware, since malware most often behaves differently than regular viruses. Therefore, it is very important to have on your computer a utility specifically designed to solve this problem. Here you need to add that you can have one antivirus program installed on your computer, but you can use several utilities to remove malware. Each of them is an excellent addition to the security system of the Windows operating system.
AdwCleaner
Quickly find and easily remove malware. AdwCleaner will allow you to solve these two problems with ease.
If you need a utility that is small in size but can easily find and remove malware, then check out AdwCleaner. This is a very convenient program, which is primarily designed to quickly find and remove malware that infects web browsers and changes their settings.
In addition, this tool will easily help you get rid of adware and potentially unnecessary applications. The downside of the program is that AdwCleaner does not contain an auto-protection module and cannot protect you from new malware entering your system. In all other respects, this is a very effective tool and should be in the arsenal of every user who actively uses the Internet.
Zemana Anti-malware
Zemana Anti-malware is an excellent addition to your main antivirus, which allows you to protect your computer as much as possible from new malware.
Zemana Anti-malware is another great option among programs designed to search for and remove various types of malware. If you want to protect your computer as much as possible, then first of all we recommend that you install a classic anti-virus package, and as a means of protection against malware, choose the Zemana Anti-malware program.
This is an excellent application that appeared not so long ago, but has already earned respect among security experts. Zemana Anti-malware can analyze suspicious programs (called heuristic analysis) to see if their behavior exhibits characteristics that are characteristic of various types of malware, including adware and programs that change the settings of installed web browsers. This means that you will be protected from the latest malware, including the case where your computer is the first victim to be affected by a new malware and, accordingly, its description is not yet in the Zemana Anti-malware database of known threats. In any case, this malicious program will be quickly detected and safely removed from your personal computer. All this happens automatically, in the background.
We recommend scanning all downloaded files with Zemana Anti-malware before running them. This will allow you to prevent your computer from becoming infected with malware, as it will block them before the initial launch. And as you know, it is better to prevent infection than to treat it later.
As already mentioned, if you already have an antivirus program, paid or free, and you completely trust it, then you can additionally install Zemana Anti-malware Free. This program will not cause conflicts and will work as an add-on that will significantly increase the security of your computer.
Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes can easily replace your antivirus or work in tandem with it, thereby significantly increasing your operating system's protection against malware.
Thinking about replacing your antivirus? Then meet Malwarebytes. This is a well-known program, originally created specifically for finding and removing malware. But by now it has seriously changed and can not only save you from malware, but also protect you from its penetration, as well as find and neutralize ordinary viruses. In addition, Malwarebytes contains a module that allows you to protect your computer from the most dangerous malware - ransomware viruses.
Malwarebytes 3.0 - scan results
Despite its enormous capabilities, this program can scan your computer very quickly, having one of the fastest scanners among all antivirus programs. With it, you can forget about the fact that scanning the entire computer can take half a day or more. Any security threat to your computer will be detected and quarantined.
Malwarebytes is not intrusive, but will always warn you when there are attempts to launch malicious programs or when any programs attempt to perform potentially dangerous actions on your system. Additionally, what needs to be added is that when you install it, you get all the features for 14 days free of charge, and then you are given a choice. Buy a license and use all the features, or use the free version of the program. In free mode, the automatic protection module will be disabled, but Malwarebytes, without any restrictions, will scan your computer at your request and will be able to remove all detected malware as before.
Kaspresky Virus Removal Tool
Kaspresky Virus Removal Tool (KVRT) is a free utility that is based on the Kaspersky antivirus core. Of course, this application will not provide you with comprehensive computer protection against malware, but it will give you complete control over manual scanning.
Kaspresky Virus Removal Tool can detect all types of malicious software, including adware and spyware, as well as a variety of Trojans, viruses and rootkits. Once malware is detected, you can remove it quickly and easily.
If you suspect that a file you downloaded may contain malware, be sure to check it using Kaspresky Virus Removal Tool. This program will analyze it, and based on this analysis, recommend whether it is safe or not to run it. It is very easy and convenient, since this program scans very quickly and consumes virtually no computer resources. This is especially convenient if you are using a computer or virtual machine with limited resources.
Although you must initiate the scanning process yourself, this does not reduce the program's capabilities. Kaspresky Virus Removal Tool is a great tool to check your computer from time to time or keep on your PC in case malware gets into the system and urgent treatment is required.
An ideal malware removal tool that does not require installation on your computer and contains several useful additional utilities.
If your computer has been infected with malware and you are faced with the fact that it works very slowly, or the installation of programs is blocked, or if you need a tool that can be stored on a flash drive, then Emsisoft Emergency Kit is perfect for you. This is an application that does not require installation on a computer and can be launched from a regular flash drive or any other external device.
Emsisoft Emergency Kit already has a database of malware signatures, but it requires an Internet connection to update. Immediately after launch, the program will scan your computer for malware and then allow you to move it to quarantine. This will block the ability of malware to harm your system.
Recently, problems such as pop-up advertising in the browser, changing the start page, spontaneous opening of browser tabs, etc. have become increasingly widespread. Most often, these phenomena are caused by the presence of unwanted programs (malware) on your computer, which are installed on the PC without the user’s knowledge and which are not so easy to remove. Developers of such programs make money by showing advertisements to users of infected PCs, sometimes being extremely annoying with their “intrusiveness” and “troublesomeness.” In this article, we will look at the most effective tools for removing unwanted programs.
First of all, I recommend that you disable all add-ons (extensions) in your browser, even those whose names are familiar to you. Developers have become more cunning and sometimes disguise their software as add-ons familiar to the user. If this does not help, try the programs from the article.
AdwCleaner
This program is not the most powerful tool for removing malware and advertising, but it is worth starting with. Why? Firstly, the program is completely free and is updated regularly. Secondly, it weighs little and does not require installation. Thirdly, it is quite effective and scans quite quickly.
Using AdwCleaner couldn't be easier. We launch the downloaded file, click “scan”, look at the results. If you are sure that some elements should not be deleted, uncheck them in the scan results. Click "clean". A reboot may be required during the process of removing unwanted software. After the removal is complete, you will receive a full report on the actions performed.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free
Anti-Malware is my favorite tool for finding and removing unwanted software and ads and one of the most popular in the world. The free version of Free for home use can be downloaded from the official website: https://www.malwarebytes.org/free/
A 14-day trial of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Premium can be downloaded from the following link: https://www.malwarebytes.org/trial/
The premium version of the program has advanced features, in particular: it blocks access to potentially dangerous sites, has a turbo scanning mode, allows you to set up a schedule for scanning and updating the program database, and protects Anti-Malware files and services from changes by malware.
So, downloaded Anti-Malware, installed it - click “Scan”
After the scan is complete, click “Remove selected” to remove all detected threats, or uncheck those files that you are absolutely sure about.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware shows excellent results in numerous tests, but does not scan particularly quickly. But you can wait to achieve results, right?)
HitmanPro
HitmanPro is a very fast, effective utility that does not require installation. Works great in conjunction with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. The program is paid, but the full version comes with a 30-day trial period, which is enough to get rid of all the malware that has accumulated on your computer. HitmanPro does an excellent job of removing ads in the browser and returning the browser start page to its original form (but not only). You can download the program from the official website
Download, run the file, select “No, I’m going to scan the system only once”
After the scan is completed, we see a window with the results. If you are confident in a file and know that it is not dangerous, you can exclude it from objects placed in quarantine.
It is very easy to pick up some malicious code on the Internet. It embeds itself in the browser, changes the start page, installs an unfamiliar search engine, adds advertising, or downloads something. In general, it does everything that ruins the life of not only the user, but also the platform itself.
One of the most serious problems in the fight against such unwanted programs and malicious code is the inaction of local antiviruses. The same Doctor Web or Kaspersky sometimes simply ignore outside interference, considering it ordinary and harmless (for them) advertising.
What should I do?
The solution to the problem in this case is special utilities for cleaning your computer from viruses and Trojans. This software has limited functionality and is aimed exclusively at finding and eliminating such threats. Venerable antivirus developers offer similar solutions, and completely free of charge.
The utility for cleaning your computer from Doctor Web viruses is called CureIt. The application does not require local installation and works “as is”. After downloading the distribution from the official website, you simply launch it and start checking. The user also has the opportunity to scan his computer directly through the browser web interface, again using the developer’s website. That is, here we already have a web-based utility for cleaning your computer from viruses.
Kaspersky Lab has approximately the same situation with its product Virus Removal Tool. Download the distribution, run the scan and remove the spies and Trojans found. But for some reason the company abandoned its brainchild: since 2015, the utility for cleaning a computer from Kaspersky viruses is no longer updated and is not maintained in any way by the developer. The program's functionality works as intended, but the process of scanning, recognizing and removing malicious code is already outdated.
It is also worth noting that these are completely free utilities for cleaning your computer from viruses, so they can be forgiven for some flaws and miscalculations. However, the software described above cannot be called effective. You can find more meticulous software on the Internet that will scan your system inside and out, and also find and neutralize malicious code. Some particularly powerful utilities for cleaning your computer from viruses find a lot of unwanted programs after a control check with CureIt and Virus Removal Tool. Yes, local antiviruses from Doctor Web and Kaspersky work better, but as far as this particular area is concerned, here, unfortunately, they lose on many points.
So, we present to your attention the best utilities for cleaning your computer from viruses and Trojans. The software has proven itself in servicing the Windows environment and is distinguished by its effectiveness, as well as a lot of positive feedback from users.
AdwCleaner
This is not the most powerful utility for cleaning your computer from viruses, but it fights like a real beast against aggressive advertising and automatic opening of pages in the browser. One of the clear advantages of the software is the availability of a free distribution license. Along with such efficiency, this is an excellent option for the average user.
The AdwCleaner utility for cleaning your computer from viruses does not require local installation and works, as they say, on the fly. Plus, the software has a well-localized and understandable interface, so any beginner can understand it. Even if any difficulties arise, the wizard of tips and settings will carefully guide the user through all the important points.
Software features
Using the utility is very simple: launch the program with the “Scan” button, wait and study the results, if necessary, uncheck unnecessary items and click “Clear”. Sometimes the application, in particularly severe cases, asks you to restart your computer and continue fixing problems.
After operation, the utility for cleaning your computer from viruses will provide a detailed report where you can examine the found and processed objects in all details. The program will be an excellent solution for those who are bothered by constantly pop-up advertisements and aggressive installation of third-party search engines.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free
This is one of the most popular and best utilities for cleaning your computer from viruses. The program is distributed free of charge and copes well with pop-ups, unwanted integration of left-wing search engines, and also detects Trojans and other malicious code.
The utility's interface may seem complicated for beginners, but after several days of use you get used to it, and the feeling of discomfort, if any, disappears. There is a smart master assistant, so you won’t have to get too lost here.
The Anti-Malware utility for cleaning your computer from viruses does a very good job of detecting malicious code and then removing it. Moreover, this functionality is just as effective as in the paid version. The latter, for the most part, adds the prefix “auto” to the available capabilities, that is, all actions are performed by the program independently. The user just needs to note which tools should be used.
CrowdInspect
Another one of the best utilities for cleaning your computer from viruses. The operating principle of the software is slightly different from the usual functionality of other programs. For the most part, such software scans and removes malicious code from executable files on the platform: it studies the browser and its add-ons, analyzes startup, the registry, and then displays a list of unwanted “guests.”
In contrast, CrowdInspect thoroughly examines running processes in the Task Manager. By checking its database, the program identifies malicious code and blocks it. After this, the already disabled process can be traced to the final file and get rid of the virus.
Distinctive features of the software
Here we have, as it were, a solution to the problem by contradiction, that is, we first look for the effect, and only then the cause, followed by removal. The free version of the program has some limitations, but for the average PC user they are not critical and are almost invisible.
Despite the fact that the utility interferes with the system processes of the platform, this has virtually no effect on performance. So the software is perfect for weak machines with a small amount of RAM.
Avast Browser Cleanup
One of the most common causes of viruses appearing on a computer is browsers. For them, developers and hobbyists are churning out all sorts of useful and interesting software, but scammers are not asleep either. The Internet is full of pop-up windows, advertising blocks and other tinsel, upon clicking on which you suddenly find that you have an installed add-on in your browser.
After installation, the program will ask you to scan your browsers for malicious code. In addition to its own virus database, the utility checks browser extensions for suspicious actions: excessive traffic consumption, pop-ups, deep interference in the system code, etc.
Features of the utility
After scanning, the program displays a convenient list of problems found, where the user can separate the wheat from the chaff and completely get rid of aggressive advertising, as well as malicious add-ons.
The utility copes well with servicing Mozilla and Internet Explorer browsers. The latest updates added support for Chrome and Opera, but the developer has not fully adjusted the tools for interacting with these browsers, so some problems may arise with them. They promised to fix the latter in the near future. In the meantime, owners of Chrome and Opera can pay attention to the next respondent.
Zemana AntiMalware
Another representative of the antivirus fraternity, distinguished by a lot of positive reviews from users. Among the obvious advantages of the software, one can note a cloud search in the virus database, and it is performed very effectively.
For example, if malicious code was written a few minutes ago and then sent to the Network, then after detecting a threat on at least one computer, the utility immediately notifies the “cloud”, after which all other users are automatically protected from its appearance and spread.
The program also features an intuitive interface and competent localization. Any user can handle the functionality of the utility, and if any problems arise, then an intelligent assistant is at your disposal.
Distinctive features of the utility
In addition to the usual search for Trojans and other malicious code on your computer, the program allows you to carefully scan browsers for the presence of aggressive and harmful extensions. The software supports all popular browsers, including Chrome, Opera, Mozilla and Internet Explorer.
The utility is installed locally, but to work it requires an Internet connection in order to communicate with the cloud. Unlike Kaspersky, Doctor Web or Nod, Zemana consumes virtually no system resources. The only category of users who were dissatisfied with the program were the owners of USB modems, that is, those who have a tight traffic account. The utility constantly “communicates” with its cloud service, so for connections with limited traffic this is not the best option.
You should also pay attention to the terms of software distribution. For the first 15 days, the user is provided with a trial period, during which the functionality works without restrictions. After this period, the utility’s capabilities are significantly reduced, and it becomes practically useless (disconnected from the “cloud”). The license costs no more than Kaspersky or Doctor Web, and the effectiveness of this software is obvious.
HitmanPro
One of the distinctive features of the utility is its high speed. If, when using the programs described above, you could drink tea or go stretch during scanning, then here everything happens almost instantly.
Moreover, the software detects not only existing threats, but also “tails” from remote ones. The latter sometimes remain in the system, and not all antiviruses are able to detect such specific code. The utility does not require local installation and works “as is”.
The program copes well with Trojans, worms, rootkits and other malicious code. After scanning, the user will be provided with a detailed report, where, if necessary, you can uncheck some programs, and then thoroughly clean the system. In addition, if the utility runs in the system tray, then aggressive advertising, pop-up windows and attempts to integrate third-party software disappear in browsers.
As for the license, it is paid. If you want to get acquainted with the utility, you can try all the available functionality for 30 days for free. After the trial period expires, the program's capabilities go to almost zero. The cost of the license is comparable to Nod and Doctor Web.
On specialized forums, users did not find any critical shortcomings in the program in their reviews. The software is effective and works as intended. By the way, the developer carefully monitors his brainchild and periodically releases updates, improving his product and taking into account the opinions of users.
If a lot of unnecessary advertising materials appear in the browser, files disappear somewhere on the desktop, or other incomprehensible things happen, and the antivirus is powerless against them, a virus removal utility comes to the rescue.
This concept refers to a small program that simply finds and removes viruses and their remnants. This is an inferior antivirus, such as Doctor Web or Kaspersky, but a small part of them that only scans the system and removes all malware.
Such utilities do not require installation and, most often, are distributed completely free of charge. Some antivirus giants release such utilities so that users can fully appreciate the power of their software.
An example of such is the same Doctor Web and Kaspersky.
The first “giant” has such a utility called Dr.Web CureIt, and the second one – Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool. These two programs are the most popular of their kind, but far from the most effective. But they are distributed for free!
Using their example, we can consider the main functions and features of viruses removal utilities. And then we’ll move on to considering those programs that really work effectively against ad viruses and other unnecessary programs.
No. 6. Dr.Web CureIt
So, Dr.Web CureIt does not require installation.
In order to use this utility, you need to go to the official website of this antivirus free.drweb.ru/cureit and download it.
It's very easy to use.
It all comes down to the following few steps:
- Launch the downloaded file.
- Click on one big button “Start checking” (Figure 1.a).
- In the next window, check off the threats that the program will look for on your computer (highlighted in green in Figure 1.b).
- Click the big “Start scan” button.
After that, you just have to wait for the end of the check. This process is shown in Figure 2.a. Upon completion, the user will see a report that displays detected viruses and the files that contain them.
An example of such a report is shown in Figure 2.b. Using the buttons at the bottom of the window, they can be deleted or quarantined.
That's the whole process of using Dr.Web CureIt.
No. 5. Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool
The use of Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool is very similar to what we saw in Dr.Web CureIt. In principle, the same applies to all other utilities for treating a computer.
As for the utility from Kaspersky, I want to believe that it is really powerful and that it is capable of efficiently finding all viruses. But, judging by the reviews on the Internet, everything is not as rosy as it seems at first glance.
Moreover, it seems that the developers of Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool decided not to put too much effort into their product. This is confirmed by the fact that the latest version of this program was released in September 2015.
Since that time, Kaspersky Lab specialists have not worked with the utility. This is evidenced by the official website of the program - www.kaspersky.ru/antivirus-removal-tool. There, by the way, you can download this very utility.
On the forums you can find reviews that Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool does not find most ad viruses, which Dr.Web CureIt easily copes with.
Some write that it takes a very long time to run and heavily loads the computer's memory. Often it is simply impossible to run other programs in parallel with Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool. Although, all Kaspersky products suffer from this.
In any case, although Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool is the brainchild of one of the best antivirus products of our time, it does not have even a quarter of the power that Kaspersky antiviruses are famous for. Therefore, it is better to use one of the utilities listed below.
No. 4. AdwCleaner
Any topic on forums that talks about free virus removal utilities will feature AdwCleaner. And this is not at all surprising, because many people choose this particular program as an alternative to the popular Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool and Dr.Web CureIt.
Although, if you take all the many reviews and posts, then it can hardly be considered the most powerful of its kind. But AdwCleaner was created, as they say, with soul and for people.
After a standard and identical virus removal process for everyone, AdwCleaner shows recommendations on how to avoid similar problems in the future.
As for use, this healing utility is practically no different from the above-mentioned similar programs.
The AdwCleaner window is shown in Figure 4. All actions are concentrated in the section with the appropriate name (highlighted in the figure).
To start using it, you need to click the “Scan” button, and then wait until the end of the scan. The “Results” section (located immediately below the “Actions” section) will contain the inspection report. There you can select all the threats found or some specific ones and click the “Delete” button.
Of course, the scanning and removal algorithms for all such programs are different, but the method of use is almost the same for all.
As for AdwCleaner, judging by the reviews people left on forums and social networks, this healing utility works better than Kaspersky and Doctor Web products.
There were cases when the same Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool did not find anything, but AdwCleaner found several dozen viruses and easily removed them from the computer. Although it cannot be considered the best of its kind.
No. 3. Anti-Malware
Anti-Malware is one of the most popular healing utilities. Almost the same thing can be said about it as about AdwCleaner - in any topic about utilities for removing viruses, at least someone will write about Anti-Malware.
The peculiarity of this program is that it is a full-fledged software with several tabs in the main window, extensive customization options, several scanning modes and a great variety of functions.
Thus, the user can set exceptions for scanning, set scheduled scans, restrict access to the utility for other users, and do much more. He also has the opportunity to view history.
In general, Anti-Malware is much more than AdwCleaner, Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool and Dr.Web CureIt combined.
Moreover, this program is distributed completely free of charge. It only has a Premium mode, in which a quick scan is available, the aforementioned scheduler, even real-time protection (!) and many other additional features.
But the main Anti-Malware package is quite enough to detect and permanently remove certain viruses.
In some cases, users use it as a replacement for an antivirus, only checking it from time to time. Although doing so is highly not recommended.
Anti-Malware also has disadvantages. But they are very small. For example, for one user the utility detected Webalta and Conduit, but did not respond to Mobogenie, which is also a completely adware program.
So in the race for the title of “best virus removal utility,” Anti-Malware clearly cannot claim first place. But her place in the top three is guaranteed!
Important: Anti-Malware has a full Russian language. Only for this you need to download it from the official website - ru.malwarebytes.org/mwb-download.
No. 2. Spybot Search & Destroy
This program differs from the others in its very interesting interface - it is clear that few people worked on the program, and they did not spend a lot of time on beautiful design and advertising of their product.
But they spent a lot of time making a truly powerful virus removal tool for any modern computer. The program interface is shown in Figure 6.
As you can see, in the main program window there are such standard items as system scan, quarantine and update. Although there are two scans here - one for the system as a whole, the other for individual files.
This is very unusual for such programs. There is a “Statistics” button, by clicking on which you can see how many viruses were on the computer for the entire time that Spybot Search & Destroy was on the computer, which of them were removed, and so on.
This is also a very useful function that allows you to analyze the main ways threats enter your computer.
But the palm among non-standard functions goes to “Immunization”. It allows you to protect certain files from infection. A very unusual, but very useful feature!
Among the advanced tools there is a report creator, which makes it possible to create a report on the operation of the program and the state of the system.
There are also settings and another interesting item - “Startup tools”. It allows you to specify those programs and functions that will be loaded with the system. For example, you can set automatic scanning at startup.
Most importantly, Spybot Search & Destroy protects against viruses very well - search is at the highest level, and removal occurs without side effects. And this is the main thing for such programs.
Important! Spybot Search & Destroy does not take first place in our rating today for one simple reason - it is unfinished!
For one user, this utility for some reason removed the drivers from the scanner; for another, the computer rebooted. In addition, the creators approached the licensing agreement with humor that was not very appropriate in this case.
If they take their creation more seriously in the future, Spybot Search & Destroy may well outperform other similar programs.
No. 1. HitmanPro
It's entirely possible that HitmanPro will be our winner today! At least, the reviews about this utility are so positive that it is quite possible to consider HitmanPro the most powerful of its kind to date.
Yes, the program is paid, but it has a trial period of 30 days. During this time, it is quite possible to completely clean the system of all kinds of viruses and never think about them again.
The very fact that HitmanPro removes not only existing viruses, but also the remnants of deleted programs and the so-called tails of viruses, already says a lot.
At the same time, the HitmanPro developers did not repeat the mistakes of the people who created Anti-Malware. They did not choose to sacrifice the main function, i.e. virus removal, for the sake of a beautiful design and a wide range of additional functions.
We can say about HitmanPro that it is really powerful! In tests conducted by various sites, this particular utility performed best.
What other similar programs did not pay attention to, HitmanPro detected very quickly and immediately reported their existence. By the way, if we talk about speed, this is another undeniable advantage of HitmanPro.
Thus, we can highlight the following main advantages of HitmanPro:
- Speed of operation (in this parameter HitmanPro is clearly better than all its current competitors);
- High-quality virus removal;
- High-quality detection of viruses and even their remnants.
The disadvantages of this utility are:
- Paid license (there is a trial period for 30 days);
- Minimum additional functions.
In principle, the choice between good virus removal and a beautiful interface is quite obvious. Therefore, HitmanPro is the best virus removal utility and the winner of our today's competition.
Although very few people know about this program. If the trial period has expired and there is no way to buy a license, Spybot Search & Destroy, Anti-Malware or the popular AdwCleaner can deal with viruses well. But HitmanPro is still better!
More information about HitmanPro can be found in the video below.
Using the Internet is a process in which most PCs connected to online resources are at risk of becoming infected with viruses and malware. In turn, there are a large number of programs that can counter these threats. Which of them can be called the most effective?
Classification of programs for removing viruses from PCs
A program for removing viruses from a computer can be a highly specialized solution designed to search for and eliminate specific types of infected files on a PC, or multifunctional anti-virus software that includes a wide range of functions for treating an infected computer. It is difficult to say which type of software is more effective in cleaning a PC from a virus. In principle, you can always use both a highly specialized product and a full-fledged antivirus. A program for removing viruses from a computer, adapted for specific types of threats, may be more effective in cases where a large number of files are infected: simultaneous processing of them by an antivirus can overload the system, as a result of which treatment of the PC will not be entirely effective.
It would be justified to use the solutions in question if the malicious program is not actually a virus, but a script embedded, as an option, in the code of a web page opened in a browser. In this case, it may be difficult for an antivirus that is best adapted to searching for “classic” viruses to detect such a PC threat.
In turn, a multifunctional antivirus is more effective in cases where you need to find several infected files on your PC, but containing a very dangerous and difficult to detect virus. This scenario requires the program to access large anti-virus databases - those that multifunctional solutions have. But it will be useful to consider the specifics of both types of virus removal software. Let's start with programs that have a narrow specialization, that is, adapted to remove specific types of threats from a PC.
Kido Removal Tool
Among the most effective solutions in question is the Kido Removal Tool program. It is a small utility designed to search for and remove the common Conficker virus from a PC. It belongs to the category of worms - that is, it spreads through networks. The program has a console interface, generally simple in structure.
RootkitBuster
This program is adapted for removing rootkits from a PC. Characterized by exceptionally high operational reliability. Its important advantage is that it is free. The program checks a variety of areas of the operating system - boot record, registry, ports.
RecIt
Another useful program is RecIt. It does an excellent job of detecting common threats such as Trojans, in particular those that require sending SMS and block operating system interfaces. It is also controlled from the command line, but the process of using it does not imply any difficulties for the PC owner.
AdwCleaner
This software is best suited for removing malware, which is an unwanted advertising script, from your computer. As a rule, they are built into browser interfaces and greatly interfere with the user’s ability to receive information from websites.
The main advantage of the program in question is that it is free, combined with high efficiency. It is noteworthy that the interface of this software is complemented by various useful tips for the PC owner. The program updates the database of malicious scripts independently.
HitmanPro
The next popular highly specialized product is HitmanPro. Its main advantage is its speed, which is also combined with the high quality of the modules responsible for detecting and removing threats.
It is noteworthy that this solution does not require installation. The program in question works for free for 30 years, after which you will need to purchase a commercial version of the software.
Anti-Malware
Another example of successful software that falls into the highly specialized category is the Anti-Malware solution. In particular, it is perfectly adapted for searching for malicious scripts in the browser. This function of the program is assessed extremely positively by users and experts.
What is the best program for removing viruses from a computer among those that fall into the category of highly specialized solutions? The peculiarity of products of the corresponding type is that the user can test them one by one. Therefore, the PC owner can identify the most effective solution in the shortest possible time by trial and error.
In terms of basic functions and capabilities, the solutions we reviewed are generally on the same level, regardless of whether they are free or commercial.
Let us now study what popular programs there are that fall into the category of multifunctional antiviruses. They, in principle, can also be adapted to remove malicious scripts and other unwanted software, like the solutions that we studied above - but their main specialization is in searching for and removing “classic” viruses. That is, codes that are embedded in the structure of other programs and therefore, as a rule, potentially significantly more dangerous than malicious online scripts.
Kaspersky
Perhaps the most popular Russian program for removing viruses from a computer is Kaspersky Anti-Virus. It is characterized by functionality, reliability, a large anti-virus database, and a relatively high level of performance. This product is universal - it is perfect for most common operating systems.
Among its notable functions, in addition to protecting the PC itself from viruses, are the protection of electronic payments, control of access to sites, and the ability to emergency restore the operating system. Of course, the standard and most popular functions, such as, in particular, scanning disks, removing viruses from the computer at startup, monitoring harmful scripts, are also implemented and performed at the highest level in Kaspersky Anti-Virus.
The most common tests of antivirus solutions - conducted, in particular, by experts from Virus Bulletin and Dennis Technology Labs - show the highest efficiency of the Russian program - more than 90%.
Doctor Web
Another well-known Russian brand is the Doctor Web program for removing viruses from your computer. This solution is among the pioneers in the domestic market of antivirus solutions. The Doctor Web development team has extensive experience in creating algorithms for protecting PCs from various types of threats.
The main advantages of the Dr Web virus removal program:
Prompt updating of virus threat databases;
High performance with a relatively low load on operating system resources;
Clear and convenient Russian-language interface.
Among the disadvantages of the solution under consideration is the ability of some outdated software versions to cause freezes and crashes in the OS. However, the latest installations of Doctor Web, as users note, function without any problems.
NOD 32
The next popular antivirus product is NOD 32. Its main advantages are speed, excellent quality of threat detection modules, functionality, and the absence of high requirements for system performance.
Some users sometimes note that the antivirus is overly attentive to the files being scanned - when the program signals the presence of a virus in a harmless file due to the fact that the structure of its code contains algorithms similar to those characteristic of malware.
BitDefender
The next well-known program for removing viruses from your computer is BitDefender software. As in the case of Kaspersky Anti-Virus, this solution allows you to control access to sites, as well as protect electronic transactions. Regarding performance, the software in question itself works quite quickly, and also includes a PC acceleration function.
Some difficulties in using the program in question may arise due to the fact that its interface is not Russified. But the basic functions that this solution offers can be easily used by Russian users. It is noteworthy that the brand manufacturer of the antivirus program in question is organizing promotions in which you can get a distribution kit of the corresponding software for free six-month use.
360 Total Security
Another popular program for removing viruses from your computer is 360 Internet Security Solution. Its main advantage is that it is free, combined with the highest efficiency. Thus, Virus Bulletin tests show that the antivirus copes with more than 87% of tasks. The program in question for removing viruses from a computer—reviews from many users confirm this—is convenient. This is due not only to the presence of a Russian-language interface, but also to the well-thought-out menu structure and functions of the solution. The antivirus software in question has the widest range of capabilities to protect your PC, programs running on it, and remove malicious files from your computer.
Avast
The next common program for removing viruses from your computer is Avast. This software is available in both paid and free versions. Its main advantages are a high level of virus detection using signature algorithms. The user is recommended to use the enhanced protection mode provided by the antivirus in question - it allows the program to conduct even more effective monitoring of the appearance of malicious files on the computer. If the corresponding function is not active, the level of protection against viruses may be significantly reduced.
The program in question for removing viruses from a computer can monitor threats both on the PC’s hard drive and in the software interfaces used by the user when going online. Some experts consider this software to be quite difficult to set up - but, as reviews from specialists and users on thematic portals show, not everyone shares this point of view.
Comodo
The next notable program for removing viruses from a PC is produced under the Comodo brand. It is characterized by a high level of proactive PC protection. Equipped with a module for blocking unsafe connections - a firewall. True, it is not as strong as users note in terms of ensuring the protection of data entered using the browser. The program in question, according to many experts, has a rather complex interface. However, the fact that it is free and also has all the functions demanded by modern users determines its highest ratings from PC owners.
Norton
A program for removing viruses from a PC, produced under the Norton brand, is also among the most effective solutions. Its main advantage is its speed, accompanied by the highest level of protection for the operating system.
Another nuance characterizing the antivirus software in question is that, as a rule, the user does not need to enter any settings manually. The program has very well-developed modules to ensure autonomous operation.
G Data
The next popular solution is produced under the G Data brand. Its main advantages are an exceptionally high level of threat detection using signature algorithms. This is predetermined by the fact that the program uses 2 anti-virus engines at once. However, this feature implies a fairly high load on computer resources.
Which antivirus is the best?
What is the best program for removing viruses from a computer on the Russian and global software markets? It can be noted that the solutions we reviewed are generally comparable both in functionality and in the quality of protecting your computer from virus threats. The fact that some of them are free does not predetermine a significant deterioration in the performance of the corresponding types of software in comparison with commercial products.
Thus, we have considered, in principle, the best programs for removing viruses from a computer, and the choice of a specific one will, rather, be determined by the subjective preferences of the user, as well as his financial capabilities. The main condition for proper use of their capabilities is installation separately.
We noted above that those programs that fall into the highly specialized category can, in principle, be used one at a time at the same time. Moreover, some of them do not actually require installation. As for antiviruses, it is highly undesirable to install them on your PC at the same time. This will significantly reduce the quality of work of each distribution, there will be false positives, and there will be an additional load on PC resources. In turn, highly specialized solutions and multifunctional antiviruses are in most cases quite compatible - they can be used simultaneously. It is possible that through sequential selection of combinations of antivirus and software adapted to remove specific types of malicious code, the user will identify the most optimal combination of programs, from the point of view of his own needs.
