How to Recover a Virus-Infected File
by Michael Davidson
Computer viruses should be a concern for any computer owner. Not only do viruses slow down system performance and possibly steal personal information, but they can also disable a computer entirely and cause a total loss of data. Although anti-virus software and safe Internet habits go a long way in preventing a virus infection to begin with, the risk of one slipping through and infecting important files on your system is always present. Not all files are capable of being repaired from a virus infection, and the process to attempt it takes some time and patience.
Access My Computer through the "Start" menu and click on "Properties."
Choose the tab labeled "Performance" and then select "File System."
Click on "Troubleshooting" and then choose "Disable System Restore." This is necessary prior to attempting a file repair so the computer doesn't call up an earlier version of the file that also has a virus infection in it.
Open your anti-virus software and select "Update" to retrieve the most recent virus definitions and information. This will benefit you when trying to delete or repair virus-infected files.
Scan your entire system using your anti-virus software. It will show a list of infected files at the end of the scan.
Right-click on each file you want to repair. Choose "Repair" from the context menu. The anti-virus software will delete the virus and restore the original file if it is able to do so.
Tip
- If your anti-virus software cannot repair an infected file, take your computer to a virus technician. He may be able to remove the virus manually by altering the program code.