3 Steps To Take After You Find a Virus on Your Computer

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(Newswire.net — October 11, 2023) — Getting a computer virus can cause all kinds of trouble with your system. Software may run slow. Personal data could get stolen. Your computer could reach a point where it no longer functions properly. If you notice your computer acting strange or think you have a virus, then follow these three steps to ensure your computer remains operational and does not run into any major problems in the future.

1. Disconnect From the Internet

Many new viruses rely on internet connections to download data, upload more viruses, and completely take over your computer with a mix of malware, adware, and other harmful software. Stop a computer from growing or infecting your machine by cutting off the internet connection. If you are plugged directly into a router, then unplug the LAN cable. If you have a Wi-Fi connection, then disable the Wi-Fi or remove the wireless USB connection.

In some cases, a virus may disable your ability to turn off the Wi-Fi. In this case, you can either shut down the computer or turn off your Wi-Fi router hardware as an alternative. From there, do not reconnect your computer to the internet until a professional has completed repairs.

2. Create a Restore Point

Before a virus grows out of control, you will want to create a restore point on your computer. A restore point will save all of your current files and settings so you don’t lose any valuable information. In every version of Windows, you can find a way to create a restore point. In many cases, the restore points are created automatically.

If not, then go into the Windows settings, search for “Restore” and click on the “Create Restore Point” option. If the virus grows big and impacts system files, then the restore point will make a big difference in your ability to return the computer back to a previous state. A restore point will give computer technicians more to work with and allow them to safely restore your previous version of the computer.

3. Have Professional Computer Cleaning

While malware virus software software may detect and inform you of a virus, the software tools may not get rid of every virus hidden deep within the system.

Help avoid a cycle of problems with professional computer cleaning services. Professionals can find the virus at its source, remove the virus from the computer, and ensure no malware and harmful software remains installed on your computer.

Not only will professionals help clean out your system, but they can set up safeguards to prevent future issues. For example, they can create a strong firewall that prevents the unwanted installation of files. They can set up virus monitors that check background actions and ensure nothing suspicious happens while you use the computer. They could also install cloud backup options to protect your files and data.

The cleaning will provide essential safeguards and remove any worries you have about viruses that may remain on your computer.

Use all of these steps at the first sign of a virus and make a big difference in the way a virus impacts your computer.