Guide: How to Stop Malware, Keyloggers, Virus, etc.

[lag]

Hey everyone, this is a little guide I wrote because I am constantly being bombarded with people asking me to "fix their computer" Perhaps it will help you too

Time and time again I am asked by people how they can remove spyware, malware, ad-ware, etc (hereafter known as badware) from their Windows based PCs. With "geek by the hour" service cost quickly exceeding the price to replace the whole PC, help can be hard to come by. They need something quick and easy, and most importantly, cheap as possible.

The unfortunate truth is: once badware is installed, it can be close to impossible to remove it. The only way to stop badware, is take your brand new PC out of the box, and install these programs from the beginning. Fear not though, if you find yourself currently infected, these tools can help you as well!

• Mozilla Firefox - Cost: FREE
  I have installed this browser first thing on all my new PCs since beta. Since that day, I have yet to have a single badware experience . In addition to Firefox's default security, I also use some of the many Plug-In's offered on their site, such as Ad-Block. This makes web surfing not only safer, but more enjoyable as I don't have to stare at flashing banner advertising all over the page. Besides windows update, I have no need for unsafe, buggy, Internet Explorer.
• Spybot - Search and Destroy - Cost: FREE
  I'm a long time user of Spybot, since beta as well. Spybot has an easy to use update feature which scans, prevents, and removes badware from your computer. When I was using Internet Explorer, I would scan every two or three days. With Firefox, once a month should do it. It also includes features for advanced users.
• Ad-Aware - Cost: FREE
  I have used Ad-Aware for quite some time, but now I find Spybot sufficient for my needs. However, many people I know still insist on using both applications. For this reason, I still recommend it to anyone who has experienced major badware problems, especially those who are already infected. Just keep beware the slightly clumsy interface and long scan times.
• Anti-Virus - Cost: FREE-$39.95
  Until recently, I still used a copy of Norton Anti-Virus 2002. I used this out-of-date product because I needed a efficient Anti-Virus program that didn't bog down my system so I could work in memory intensive applications or play games. I nabbed a 30 day trial of Bit Defender on chance and was instantly hooked! I would recommend this over any other anti-virus program. Update: Additionally I'd like to note, the very latest version of Symantic Antivirus 2007 can be slightly modified to give you a zero-load on your PC, this is what I am using now. Other Options:
  • Bit Defender (lag approved)
  • AVG (not tested, see comments below)
  • Symantec/Norton 2002 or 2007 (lag approved)
  • McAfee (lag disapproved)
  • Panda (lag approved)
• Unlocker Assistant - Cost: FREE
  This quick little tool I found is great when your experimenting with different applications and whatnot, lets you remove them where they stand. For example: When you the "This file is in use" error.
• Generic Firewall - Cost: $0.00-$40.00
  Firewalls prevent remote users from accessing your PC, and there are plenty to choose from. Many people swear by a software solution called ZoneAlarm, but it is very clumsy and ofter interferes with daily computer use. For high-speed internet users, I would recommend a hardware firewall. Even if you are only running a single PC, purchasing a simple, 4-port router from Linksys (a Cisco company) can be a valuable investment. The cost is very low, sometimes cheaper that software alternatives (eBay, or grab an old one from a friend), and you'll always have room for expansion. Note: If you have more than one computer connected to the internet now, you most likely already have a hardwire firewall.

Hopefully you will find these basic tips helpful in preventing and removing badware in the future. If you need any help, contact me and I'll be sure to answer your questions or point to some sites that may have a solution for you.

[Snitch]

AVG needs to be added ^.-

Snitch

[Mr.Goomis]

I got most of those already + some others not mentioned, (AVG sux tbh)
Unlocker ownz like id shoud be! Ive used it from beta version and it always gets better

[Snitch]

Actually AVG is awesome for a free Anti-virus kit, and you don't get massive errors unlike Norton + Mcafee

Snitch

[Nugma]

Congratulations.

[lag]

I've never had an error in the old norton products, but after 2002 they got laggy as hell. With 2007, you can disable the 7 or so "system services" that Symantic installs so unless I actually scan for viruses, I have no problems. Also they lost the dopey interface that I hated so much.

I'm going to add AVG in a bit, but mostly to give some extra options, not becaue I prefer any virus scanner over another.

Updated to include other anti-virus options, feel free to add and I'll put it in the guide.

Congratulations.

Wha?