We all know the internet can be a dangerous place, and many of us use some form of security software… even if its Microsoft’s Security Essential & Windows defender.
But, if we are all honest with ourselves, we never really pay that much attention to it, and we end up getting malware or spyware on our PCs and Macs (yes they too are prone to the more dangerous forms of phishing and hijacking as PCs).
The good news is there are programs out there that can help you remove these malicious viruses, and to make your lives a little easier we have compiled a short list of some best malware removal tools.
What is Malware & How Malware Removal Tools Work
Malware is an infected file. It usually comes from email attachments, instant messages, downloading a file from internet, letting other add-ons be installed on your PC or you could simply contract it from a flash drive. They generally slow down your browsing by installing freaky search engines and toolbars or another indicator is that your PC will take really long to start up/wake up.
The over all effect you get is that your PC has suddenly become sluggish and old in everything it does.Malware removal tools are softwares that scan for malicious files and processes on the system and then it removes them.
The proper way to get rid of malware is to download a good malware removal tool and run it. After it has run and given you a green signal, you then have to restart your PC and in NO circumstance do a system restore, otherwise the infection will just come right back.Let’s take a look at some of the best malware removal tools
Malwarebytes – Free & Paid (PC only)
Malwarebytes is slightly different than some of the other malware removal tools you will see on this list.
The biggest difference being that Malwarebytes isn’t meant to prevent malware, simply remove it. With that in mind, the free version of Malwarebytes should always run alongside another antivirus program or simply fork out $25 for the Premium version that runs faster & prevents malware as well.
That being said, Malwarebytes is awesome because it is one of the most advanced malware removers out there. After being invented by a fourteen year old who corrupted his family computer, Malwarebytes’ mission is to be constantly up-to-date on the latest malware practices so that it can easily remove them.
That commitment to security is why Malwarebytes is a must have for anyone who wants to keep their computer safe.
Ad-Aware Free Antivirus+ – Free (PC only)
Ad-Aware is great because of how behind the scenes it is.
It offers a pretty comprehensive package scanning your files, new programs, and even your emails. It does all of this without constant pop-ups or upgrade requests.
The software also includes a scheduler so that users can regularly schedule scans without loading the software.
For users looking for something simple and non-intrusive, Ad-Aware is certainly one of the best options in malware removal tools.
Avast Antivirus – Free & Paid (Mac & PC)
Avast is one of the most popular options on this list of malware removals for Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android phone and tablet.
The Avast Ultimate Suite offers Premium Security, Cleanup and SecureLine VPN all in one package! They also offer remote assistance, which allows users to be assisted by someone else over the internet. It’s a great feature for people who don’t understand a lot about computers but need help removing malware.
The Avast Premium Security protects all your devices in real-time, locks out hackers, stops webcam spying, secures passwords, protects user from fake sites, malware, viruses and much more.
The Cleanup Premium cleans your browsers, cleans disk drive by removing left over files that take space and most importantly cleans registry by removing hidden junk files.
It also automatically updates important software for the device/computer. All these features increase the longevity of your device/computer and make it run faster and more smoothly.
Lastly the Avast SecureLine VPN makes wifi safe to use i.e no one will be able to spy on you via the internet such as the government, hackers, advertisers and so on.
You will also be able to navigate the internet like a king without geographical restrictions like: ‘This site is only viewable in the UK’ and ‘This content is only available for streaming in South Korea,’ making your life much easier.
Do check out the link to learn more.
Bitdefender – Paid (Mac and PC)
For those looking for the end all be all of protection, look no further than Bitdefender. Not only does it have heavy duty security measures, but Bitdefender Anti Virus has won best protection for the past three years.
It has also been hailed for having the lowest impact on your computer’s performance. As with all anti virus software out there, you pay more for extra benefits, for instance anti virus does not include Parental Control and 2-Way Firewall.
But, for that you need to get Bitdefender Internet Security and if you want to protect multiple devices, such as Mac, PC and Android then you are better off with Bitdefender Total Security. This goes on to include Anti Theft measures and secure file storage as well.
In a nutshell, for those looking to make their computer (whether its a PC or a Mac) into a fortress against malware, Bitdefender may be worth that cost.
That’s all for our list on the best malware removal tools.
Just remember, when it comes to malware… routine scans and check-ups are always the best defense. Any other awesome malware removal out there? Let us know in the comments!
Here’s a helpful tip!
If you’re looking for ways to clean your laptop or desktop for germs and dust, we recommend alcohol swabs.
Yes the ones used most commonly when applying a screen protector. Even if you want to clean Microsoft Surface Alcantra keyboard laptop, just use alcohol swabs (may be 5-10) depending on how dirty it has become, and your Alcantra will start looking and feeling better in no time!