What Is Malware?

Malware is malicious software that adversely affects the performance of your computer. Though viruses and Trojans also fit within the definition, the term specifically refers to spy ware, programs that keep track of the websites your visit; ad ware, programs that pop up advertisements on your screen; hijackers, programs that target web programs running on your computer and direct them to other sites; toolbars, programs that present themselves as helpful pop-up blockers or browser search engines; and dialers, software that makes your modem dial a 1-900 number, the result of which is a heft phone bill for a service you never wanted.

How to Remove Malware

Some Malware programs bundle together these various softwares and present themselves as legitimate downloads. GAIN, webHancer and IST bar examples of comprehensive programs that look legitimate but incorporate Malware.

The best way to protect yourself from Malware is to not get it in the first place. Caution must be exercised when pop ups suggesting downloading programs appear on the screen. With a bit of common sense it becomes clear which programs are legitimate and which only pose to be legitimate. Keeping the pc updates, with windows service pack 2 is also an option. Since most Malware targets Windows Explorer alternate browsers should also be used. Even when downloading legitimate programs, reading the terms and conditions of agreement might help. Kazaa, windows messenger and Limewire all include malicious software. But downloading only parts of the program and not the whole package can control their effects. Keeping up a firewall and a pop up blocker from a trusted website like Google. Third party software also helps the cause. Spywareblaster etc are programs that kill Malware while it begins downloading and locking itself in your browser.

Free Malware Removal

Once you have Malware you should remove it at the earliest. Virus detection programs don’t detect all Malware. Microsoft has a Malware removal tool entrenched it is Service Pack 2.

Online Malware Scan

Websites like virusscan.jotti.org provide reasonably good scans that check particular files for Malware and also remove them. www.virustotal.com is another website that provides services for online scanning and removing of Malware. These scans and softwares are rudimentary in nature but have been getting more refined over the years.

The best way of dealing with Malware is still prevention. With an updated pc, security setting running nicely and relatively good head on the shoulders of the user Malware can be detected and defied.