How to Scan & Remove Malware from Your Computer

At BPM Tech Solutions, we understand that malware infections can slow down your system and compromise your personal data. Whether you use a Mac or a PC, removing malware quickly is essential for maintaining your computer’s security and performance.

This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions to identify and remove malware using built-in tools and a trusted anti-malware application.

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

Immediately disconnect your computer from the internet to prevent the malware from spreading, receiving further instructions, or stealing data. Simply unplug your Ethernet cable or turn off your Wi-Fi connection.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts your computer with only essential system functions, preventing most malware from running and making it easier to remove threats.

On Windows 10 and 11:

1. Press Windows and I to open Settings.
2. Go to Update and Security (or System in Windows 11) and select Recovery.
3. Under Advanced Startup, click Restart Now.
4. When the Choose an Option screen appears, select Troubleshoot, then Advanced Options, then Startup Settings, and click Restart.
5. After restarting, press 4 (F4) to enable Safe Mode or 5 (F5) for Safe Mode with Networking if you need internet access briefly.

On macOS:

1. Restart your Mac.
2. For Intel-based Macs, hold the Shift key immediately after the startup chime until the login window appears.
3. For Apple Silicon Macs, shut down your Mac, then hold the power button until you see startup options and select Safe Mode.

Step 3: Monitor System Activity

Before running a scan, check for unusual system activity.

On Windows:

• Open Task Manager by pressing Control, Shift, and Escape.
• Look for processes with unfamiliar names or high resource usage.

On macOS:

• Open Activity Monitor from Applications, then Utilities.
• Review running processes and identify any using an unusual amount of CPU or memory.

Step 4: Scan for Malware

Use a trusted antivirus or anti-malware software to scan your system. Ensure the software is updated before starting the scan.

For Windows Users:

• Use an antivirus solution such as Norton Antivirus Plus for real-time scanning and malware removal.

For macOS Users:

• Choose a reliable malware scanner designed for Mac systems and run a full system scan.

Follow the on-screen instructions to quarantine or remove any detected threats.

Step 5: Reset Web Browser Settings

Malware can modify browser settings, leading to pop-ups, redirects, and security risks. Resetting your browser helps remove harmful extensions and settings.

For Chrome:

1. Click the three-dot menu in the top right corner.
2. Go to Settings and select Reset settings.
3. Click Restore settings to their original defaults, then confirm by selecting Reset settings.

For Edge:

1. Click the three-dot menu in the top right corner.
2. Go to Settings and select Reset settings.
3. Click Restore settings to their default values and confirm.

Step 6: Clear Cache and Temporary Files

Malicious files may hide in system caches and temporary files.

On Windows:

• Use Storage Sense in Settings under System and Storage to delete temporary files.

On macOS:

• Open Finder, press Shift, Command, and G, type ~/Library/Caches, and delete unnecessary files.

Removing cached files helps eliminate leftover malware traces and frees up space.

What to Do If Malware Removal Fails

If your computer still shows signs of infection after following these steps, you may need to reinstall your operating system. Before doing so, back up important files that were created before the infection.

Reinstalling Windows:

1. Go to Settings, then Update and Security, and select Recovery.
2. Choose Reset this PC and follow the instructions.

Reinstalling macOS:

1. Use Disk Utility in macOS Recovery to erase your hard drive.
2. Reinstall macOS following Apple’s official instructions.

How to Prevent Future Infections

Preventing malware is as important as removing it. Follow these best practices to protect your computer.

• Use a Reliable Antivirus – Install an antivirus with real-time protection and automatic updates.
• Keep Software Updated – Regularly update your operating system and applications to patch security vulnerabilities.
• Be Cautious Online – Avoid clicking unknown links or downloading software from untrusted sources.
• Enable a Firewall – Use built-in firewalls to block unauthorized access.
• Back Up Important Data – Regularly back up files to an external drive or cloud storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do devices become infected with malware?

Devices can be infected through phishing emails, unsafe websites, and infected external drives. Outdated software and weak passwords also increase security risks.

Can a factory reset remove malware?

Yes, a factory reset can remove most malware by restoring the system to its original state. However, it will erase all your data, so backing up important files is essential.

Should I disable my antivirus while removing malware?

No, antivirus software should remain enabled unless you need to troubleshoot compatibility issues.

Final Thoughts

Removing malware is crucial to maintaining your computer’s performance and protecting your personal information. By following these steps—from disconnecting from the internet and entering Safe Mode to scanning for malware and resetting your browser—you can eliminate threats and keep your device secure.

At BPM Tech Solutions, we are here to help with any technical challenges. If you need further assistance with malware removal or other computer issues, our expert team is ready to support you.

Stay safe and secure.