How to Recover a Virus-Infected File

by Michael Davidson

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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.

Step 1

Access My Computer through the "Start" menu and click on "Properties."

Step 2

Choose the tab labeled "Performance" and then select "File System."

Step 3

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.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

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.