The Internet is full of security threats. Whether it is the US or any other country, security is still a concerning spot for everyone. Technology advances in leaps and bounds nowadays, and while that is a good thing if you think about the entire new tech that makes our lives better, there are also some not-so-great implications to this matter.
The scenario is simple and common: you take some files to work on them from home, or you just connect to the company network from your home computer, which may be already infected. Doing so automatically opens a backdoor for attackers, granting them access to your company’s network. From there onward, chaos breaks, as your company’s files fall into the wrong hands.
These types of issues are only going to increase as our society relies more and more on the Internet. To solve all the security issues we selected the best malware removal tools for Windows users. The list is handpicked and each program is specialized malware removal with the best prevention and protection features.
Free Tools
There are plenty of free and open source tools available to scan and remove malware from your PC.
1. Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes doesn’t need any introduction. Even if you google for “best malware removal tool” you see the Malwarebytes in the first position. Malwarebytes is our first choice as one of the best malware removal tools. This program offers real-time protection, daily security updates, adware, and ransomware detection much more.
When you install the Malwarebytes for the first time on your PC, it thoroughly scans your system and checks for the hidden malware. Also, you will be offered 14-day free trial of the premium edition. Real-time scanning is a premium option in the program. If you are trying to install any pirated program on your PC, the real-time scanning will catch the malware (PUP files) in the program.
The user interface of the Malwarebytes is pretty easy to understand. Any novice user can run and quarantine the infected files with basic knowledge of the computer. The program is available for Windows, Mac, Android, and also comes as a special package for Business Endpoint Protection, and Technicians Techbench program.
2. Bitdefender
Bitdefender is a very popular Antivirus and Internet security program as we all know. The lesser known fact is, Bitdefender is an excellent Malware program too. The program is packed with Multilayer ransomware protection to keep your files safe. The program finds the malware presence by checking the behaviour of data present on your PC.
In our testing of the program, Bitdefender found very active while catching the ransomware. Also, the program is very lightweight on the system resources and runs smoothly without hogging them. Bitdefender is assuring you the best protection against malware and secures your data from attacks. Also, the program comes with additional features like Anti-Pishing, webcam protection, Anti-fraud, rescue mode and much more.
3. Spybot Search & Destroy
Spybot Search & Destroy is a very popular name among the excellent malware removal programs. The program offers serious protection against malware and destroys after detection. Spybot comes in 3 different version for users. The user interface of the application is simple and clutter-free. When you want to search for the malware click on the “System Scan” option to start scanning.
Along with robust protection from malware, the program also offers additional features like host file modification, botnet scanner, secure file shredder and much more. It is one of the best malware removal program to try.
The program supports almost all Windows versions like XP, Vista, 7, 8 and 10.
4. MalwareFox Antimalware
Another malware removal tool for Windows users. Like other malware removal tools, this program comes in both free and paid versions. MalwareFox promises malware detection and repairing files damaged by rootkits, browser cleanup in free versions. The paid version comes with ransomware protection, infection prevention, and zero-day attack protection.
In the first run of the application, it starts with a free 15 days premium protection. After installing, the program begins downloading latest security updates from their database. The user interface of the MalwareFox is pretty neat and clean. You will see a big Scan button at the right side bottom of the user interface. During my testing, I feel MalwareFox performed well and provided decent security. For more details please read our MalwareFox Review.
5. SUPERAntiSpyware
As usual, SUPERAntiSpyware comes two versions. The free version comes with features like malware, rootkits, hijacks, trojans, worms detection, and removing spyware from your computer. The user interface of the program looks a little bit outdated, but performance wise the program cleans your PC malware-free.
6. HitmanPro
HitmanPro is a powerful anti-malware program available for Windows. This program lets you find hidden malware signatures, behavior changing files and other vulnerabilities with ease. HitmanPro is a very light-weight program. It consumes only 12MB of your hard drive space and starts functioning immediately.
The free version of HitmanPro covers advanced malware removal and potentially unwanted application removal, whereas the paid version brings you the advanced features like real-time protection of latest malware threats, advanced ransomware protection, web-protection, online-banking protection and exploit prevention.
7. Adaware Antivirus
Adaware Antivirus comes as a combination of antivirus and malware protection. The real-time protection feature will protect you from the background and clears unwanted malware files. It uses the smart scan feature to consume fewer system resources while scanning your PC.
Along with malware protection, adware is also packed with many advanced security features such as network protection, digital lock, parental control, email protection and robust firewall.
8. Kaspersky Internet Security
Kaspersky Internet Security is a very popular security suite available for Windows and Mac users. We can’t predict the cyber attacks, at least we can secure from them. Kaspersky Internet Security suite is a complete program for protecting your PC from unexpected and unwanted attacks.
Kaspersky Internet Security stands as a guard for your PC. The program protects from all kinds of vulnerabilities including malware. Features like webcam protection, secure password manager, file encryption and backup are extra add-ons to the program.
9. Avast Internet Security
Another excellent antivirus suite for PC users, Avast is an award-winning company with virus prevention and protection. The primary company focus is to prevent the malware and other types of attacks to your PC. The prevention features such as firewall, anti-spam, real site protection, Wi-Fi inspector secures from security vulnerabilities.
On the protection side, it has CyberCapture, Behaviour Shield, Smart Scan and Ransomware Shield (block all malware files from untrusted apps) and Sandbox features. These features completely stop the virus attacks and other security issues to your PC.
10. Comodo Antivirus
Another award-winning antivirus and malware removal solution. It has dedicated malware protection built-in the antivirus program. Comodo Antivirus ensures full protection from malware attacks and even from newly designed security threats.
Note: During the program installation, many programs asking you to change your search engine preferences, and browser. Make sure to uncheck before proceeding to next.
That’s all for now. Please do share your views and feedback in the comment box below.