How to Restore a Computer and Get Rid of a Virus

By Suvro Banerji

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A computer virus is a malware that enters your system via the Internet without your knowledge. Computer viruses are of different types and constitute different threat levels. Depending on the type, they can change your computer settings and, sometimes, even damage your hard drive and cause data loss. There are hundreds of antivirus programs that can remove computer malware. However, if you do not wish to download external software and want to remove viruses manually, you can choose to restore your computer to a previous date, before your system files and registries were not infected.

Windows XP (or lower) users

Step 1

Click on the Start button and select "All Programs." Click on "Accessories" and point your cursor to "System Tools." Select "System Restore."

Step 2

Click on "Restore my computer to an earlier time." Hit "Next."

Step 3

Click on a restore point by looking at the date. Select a date before the day your computer was infected with a virus. Hit "Next."

Step 4

Click "OK." Hit "Next" when you see "Confirm Restore Point Selection." This will restart your computer and restore its settings to those on the chosen date.

Windows Vista (or above) users

Step 1

Click on the Start menu and select "All Programs." Click "Accessories" and point your cursor to "System Tools." Select "System Restore."

Step 2

Click "Next" when the system restore wizard starts.

Step 3

Single-click to choose a restore point by looking at the date. Select a date before the day your computer was infected with a virus. Hit "Next."

Step 4

Click "Yes" to confirm. Your computer will restart to the chosen restore point.

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