This is an updated round up of security tools used for Windows PC cleanup and virus removal.  The original post can be found here: http://www.nickshertzer.com/wordpress/?p=247

Realtime Protection

The first step to malware and virus removal is to never get infected in the first place.  Start by installing a realtime AV scanner. (Important Note: only install ONE realtime A/V scanner.  Computer performance can be severely affected by running multiple file system scanners at once)

AVG is the current PC World editors pick for A/V as best in class  (PC Mag.com Best Free Antivirus 2012) .

AVG Free:

http://download.cnet.com/AVG-Anti-Virus-Free-Edition-2012/3000-2239_4-10320142.html?part=dl-avg_free_us&subj=dl&tag=button

The free AntiVirus software from Microsoft called Security Essentials is also a good choice.  In addition, I typically also configure Spybot Search and Destroy to use it’s “Tea Timer” and IE Protection.

Microsoft Security Essentials:

http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security_essentials/default.aspx Read the rest of this entry »