If your computer is suddenly running slow or you notice data loss and suspicious activity, then there’s a chance it might be infected with a virus.
There are several ways to fix that when this happens, but one of the easiest ways is to use a genuine virus scanner and removal tool.
The virus removal process is a manual intervention of detecting, disinfecting, and deleting viruses, malware, or any other malicious element from your computer.
It scans and detects the virus before indicating the threat level to you, so you can then delete the virus manually.
Most of these tools are user-friendly and easily available. Most of the ones we’ll be checking out today are free virus-removal tools, so you don’t have to spend any money 💵 on them.
Before we jump onto the list, let’s first clarify the basics.
Difference Between an Antivirus and a Virus Removal Tool
It’s important that you don’t confuse a virus removal tool with an antivirus tool.
The main difference between the two is that antivirus software automatically detects and removes viruses and malware from your device, while manual intervention is required for a virus removal tool.
An antivirus tool also offers plugins that can be installed in your browser to prevent the entry of viruses into your computer in the first place. In case the virus enters your PC via an internet download, the antivirus tool alerts a threat and removes the virus.
On the other hand, a virus removal tool is a basic tool that can be used to remove the virus only when you notice it.
To sum up, a virus removal tool offers basic protection against viruses, whereas an antivirus tool is advanced software that offers much more in the long run.
However, that doesn’t mean virus removal tools aren’t effective. Here are some of the many benefits of using a virus removal tool:
- Protects your computer from viruses and malware
- Most of the tools are easy to operate and free from usability jargon
- Provides privacy patches to secure the data stored in your computer
- Some of the paid solutions also include a free VPN service
- It enables safe browsing and protects you from phishing
Ever heard of Vishing? Check out how to avoid this growing cybercrime.
Now that you’re well acquainted with the differences let’s get on with the virus removal tools list compiled for your virus/malware protection needs.
AVG
Recognized as a top-rated product of 2020, AVG also hones a 4-star rating from the CNet Editor’s Rating.
This tool is free to use and offers protection against malware and viruses. It blocks malware attacks, removes computer viruses, fights other online threats, and keeps your computer safe against future attacks.
The software is lightning-fast and performs the scan with a single click. Additionally, it also protects your computer from unsafe links, outdated software, attachments, and other common risk factors.
AVG works 24/7 in the background and is equipped with regular updates for the best defense against attacks.
Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes is another free virus/malware scanner and removal tool that works like magic. Even though the free version is perfect, you can unlock more features with its premium subscription.
The tool helps you tackle a bunch of problems, such as:
- Frequent device crashes
- Sudden password changes
- Identity theft
- Multiple pop-ups
You can use this virus removal tool to remove viruses and malware using 3 simple steps – install the virus scanner, review threats and remove them seamlessly.
In case you feel your phone is also affected by viruses, you can use the mobile version to remove them.
Sophos
You can use Sophos Scan and Clean virus removal tool when you suspect a virus is present in your computer. You must download and run the program, log in with your email address, apply your preferred settings and begin the scan.
Additionally, the system also adds security updates when they come with every scan. The Sophos proprietary cloud-assisted Miniport hook bypass technology allows the tool to go past the rootkits and bootkits for any hard disk drive.
This tool is free, so you should consider checking this one out.
F-Secure
F-Secure gives you the power to protect your computer in real-time through its virus removal tool. It doesn’t require an installation and is free to use. It also works pretty well alongside any other security software installed on your computer.
You have to download the software and run the EXE file to scan and delete any kind of threats and viruses that it detects.
Kaspersky
One of the most trusted brands to keep viruses and malware at bay, Kaspersky never fails to impress us with its virus removal tool.
It knows the exact locations to find the threats and take them out in no time. At best, it removes the viruses; if not, it sends them to the quarantine folder.
You can be sure this virus removal tool will always stay effective because it receives regular updates. While it’s not a complete package to tackle viruses and malicious activities, it still does a brilliant job as a standalone solution.
At the moment, it’s only available for Windows users, so if you’re one of them, you can enjoy the great service of Kaspersky for free.
HouseCall
HouseCall is a free online virus scan tool to get informed about viruses, malware, worms, and other dangerous threats. Its user-friendly interface allows you to perform a custom scan and fix the issues for free. You can review and restore the files after the process is done.
A cherry on the cake is its browser-independent functionality that eliminates compatibility issues, enhancing user experience.
HouseCall allows free scanning for Windows and Mac devices and home networks.
Avast
A well-known name in the market, Avast brings us another one from their kitty of award-winning service to ease our lives in the world of threats. Their virus removal tool has a 4.0 trust score, which depicts how good it is
You can download the free version to remove any viruses infecting your system or get the premium version to access a wider range of features.
This virus scanner and removal tool offer free VPN access, data leak protection, and a strong fight against malicious threats.
You can use this solution on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices. Not to mention, it’s trusted by 400 million users looking for a great service with top protection, and that’s what they got. ✔️
McAfee
Last to mention in this list is a brilliant virus removal tool from McAfee that offers effective PC repairs with the help of top-notch security experts. Since it’s a premium service, it has a price tag, and you can get it for $89.95 per incident.
Some of the many features of this solution include:
- Family protection
- Personal data clean up
- VPN access
- Identity monitoring
- Credit monitoring
- Security freeze
- Password protection
- Identity theft coverage
- Multiple device protection
- Removal of trojans, viruses, and malware
The above features are a good reflection of being a premium service user, as you get more features to tackle any problem.
This software is a 30th-time winner of the PC Editor’s Choice awards, along with other awards in line, so you can totally put your trust in this.
Conclusion
It’s never good news when you discover your device is infected with viruses or malware. Even worse, if the threat could mess up your system and important corrupt files. In these cases, the above virus removal tools will come super handy in bringing it back to normal.
Next, learn how to protect your internet privacy.
