Malware is defined as “software that is intended to damage or disable computers and computer systems.” The effects of a malware attack can leave hardware completely damaged, causing the user to have to get a replacement. Types of malware include ransomware, adware, viruses, phishing, trojan horses, rootkits, worms, etc.
In order to successfully detect malicious code and stay protected from online threats, a malware scanner is a necessary part of your security posture for discovery. =. With millions of new malware strains detected every day, websites are extremely vulnerable to malware attacks, and by leveraging a malware scanner, users and website owners can detect threats early and prevent them. A website will likely be up against numerous potential vulnerabilities, and should implement a malware scanner into its security to easily spot the most dangerous vulnerabilities. By doing so, you will reduce the risk of hackers finding your website and attacking it.
How To Scan Your Computer For Malware?
When under a potential malware attack, PCs shows many signs and symptoms. To name a few:
- slower-than-usual performances
- reoccurring, uncontrollable, and irrelevant pop-ups
- and more
Here’s a step-by-step guide for protection:
#Enter Safe Mode
Before you get started with the process, disconnect from the internet and restart to login to Microsoft Safe Mode. Disconnecting from the internet ensures the infection is contained. If the malware is designed to load automatically when Windows starts, entering this mode may prevent it from doing so.
#Erase/Delete Temporary Files
Before running the malware scanner, while in safe mode, be sure to delete the temporary files. This step is essential because it speeds up the malware scanning process and also gets rid of some of the known malware.
Download Malware Scanners
Running an effective malware scanner is more than enough to remove most standard infections. If you already have a malware scanner installed on your computer, you should still ensure it’s up-to-date. If you don’t have one, be sure to download a malware scanner.
If you are sure that the computer is infected, you should use an on-demand scanner, such as the Xcitium Cybersecurity Malware Scanner.
Best Free Malware Scanner Tools
Hackers and online criminals wait for the right moment to attack your device. In addition to an antivirus program to remove the infection, you’ll also need a malware removal tool. Below are the top three best free malware scanner tools available in the market today.
- Xcitium Antivirus
- Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
- BitDefender Antivirus Free Edition
Xcitium Antivirus
First on the list of best free malware scanner tools is the Xcitium AV for Windows 10, available for both commercial and personal use. This effective software prevents infections during browsing and keeps computers secure while performing sensitive transactions online. The Xcitium Antivirus Software consists of multi-layered levels of malware removal and protection to keep your system safe. It contains the host intrusion prevention system (HIPS), Defense+ and Auto Sandbox technology.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
This is another effective, free malware scanner that provides daily updates. With Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, new threats to your computer will be identified and removed, ensuring protection. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware offers a 14-day trial of the premium edition for the first time users . You’ll be afforded preventative tools like real-time scanning and protection from ransomware. After two weeks, it reverts to the basic, free version.
BitDefender Antivirus Free Edition
The BitDefender Antivirus Free Edition software contains an anti-malware engine to keep infection away and resolve any existing problems. All suspected files and folders are found and quarantined separately. It prevents all attacks and online dangers from causing damage to your computer.
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