Free Programs I Keep In My Computer Virus Removal Toolkit

Posted in: Other - Anti-Malware

Viruses, Malware, Rootkits, Trojans... They're everywhere, and chances are good you've had to deal with them at some point in time. Without the proper tools, fighting against these enemies is a loosing battle. Here a list of free anti-malware programs and resources that I keep in my arisonal.

Malware Detection

Rootkit Detection

Free Virus Scanners

Script Blockers
Other Resources

Tools You May Want Nearby

Along with the aforesaid resources, I would like to point out two things that will help in your virus removal battle. First, many of the listed programs will not detect a virus once you've been infected. This is not always the case, but it can be depending on the virus. Running the virus/malware scanner in safemode can often get around this problem. Second, I think it's important to note that the best defence against viruses/malware is simply keeping them off your computer in the first place. Be very, very careful as you surf the internet. These are the rules that I live by, and I they've served me well:

  1. Run a virus scanner and keep it updated.
  2. Know what software you have on your computer. If any program looks strange and out of place, DO NOT TRUST IT - DO NOT RUN IT.
  3. Know what your software does and does not do.
  4. Do not download software from just anywhere. Be sure that the software came from a reliable place.
  5. Do not install anything without knowing what it does.
  6. Keep your software up to date.
  7. If in doubt, google it. Find a reliable source of information, and find out if the software or website is legit.

If you would like to avoid all this virus/malware hassle, why not install a distribution of Linux? I use Ubuntu. Although linux isn't as user friendly as it could be, it has definitly evolved into a very user friend form in recent years. Why not download a Ubuntu Live CD and give it a try.