Written by Adam Stevenson- Technical Content Editor Updated on September 22, 2021 |
Have you ever heard about the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool? Do you have a Windows device? If you have a Windows device, we are here to tell you a little bit more about the easy way you can make your Windows device safer.
Written by Adam Stevenson- Technical Content Editor Updated on September 22, 2021 |
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The Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool was released to make Windows devices more secure.
The tool checks computers running Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000, and Windows Server 2003 for infections by specific, prevalent malicious software and helps remove any infection found.
When the detection and removal process is complete, the tool displays a report describing the outcome and will let you know if malware was removed.
Microsoft releases a new version of this tool on the second Tuesday of every month. It appears as just another patch in Windows Update. If you have your computer set to automatically install Windows Updates, it will be installed automatically.
The first release of Windows XP didn’t have a firewall enabled by default, so the Malicious Software Removal Tool was a necessity.
Microsoft introduced the tool to purge widespread worms and other popular types of malware from the Windows XP system without antivirus software installed.
Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool detects and eliminates more than 80 kinds of malware.
The Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool checks computers for infections by malicious software.
Computers running on the following operating systems can use this tool;
You can also perform an online scan of your computer using the Windows Live OneCare safety scanner.
To Download the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool, you should visit the Microsoft Downloads Centre. Search for the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool in the search bar.
When found, you should download the file and follow the installation instructions.
As we mentioned before, the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool removes malware programs, but the thing is, it only removes a few. It does not replace the need for an antivirus program on your computer.
Once a month, the tool will be updated and keep running scans in the background. Previous versions of this tool did not run scans in the background. This meant that some malware could sneak past the tool and infect your device.
You will be notified as soon as the tool picks up that you have malicious files on your device. The malware will be removed immediately. The Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool does make your Windows computer more secure.
The Microsoft malware scanner tool does not replace anti-malware software. Microsoft's malware removal tool only exists as an extra protection aid for the lack of antivirus abilities built-in in Windows devices. The tool attacks and removes malware, particularly worms, slowing their spread and preventing them from doing more damage to your device.
With this said, it is definitely no substitute for an antivirus. An antivirus program will naturally have an anti-malware scanner built-in, with other add-ons, which guards your system against a larger amount of threats, preventing them from taking over.
Bitdefender has a well-rated malware database to detect malware on your Windows device without any hassle.
Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
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| Subscription Options: | 1- year |
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Bitdefender provides all of the antivirus protection features that you need with a great malware scanner.
Read the full Bitdefender Review
McAfee is mostly known for being a mid-range anti-virus solution, packed with many features and add-ons.
Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
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| Subscription Options: | 1 years |
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McAfee offers the necessary protection you need to keep your Windows device safe.
Norton provides an amazing service, but it’s among the most expensive suites in 2021 and also doesn’t have a free version.
Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
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| Subscription Options: | 1, 2, 3 Years |
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Norton is easy to use but at the same time provides plenty of options for advanced users.
Windows Defender works well for real-time protection on your Windows device.
Operating Systems: Windows
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| Supported devices, Pricing Plan and Packages: | Free |
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Windows Defender is the built-in antivirus software on a Windows device and is available for free.
Read the full Windows Defender Review
Avast offers a collection of security features. Your Windows device will be safe from online threats, without the need for any worry.
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Compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS & Android
User Type:
Home or Office
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Avast is one of the most popular antivirus programs and has millions of users.
The Microsoft Malware Removal Tool is definitely a must-have when you have a Windows-operated device. It is important though, to remember that this tool will never replace a well-rated antivirus solution.
To make sure your device is fully secure, we do recommend you purchase an antivirus solution with a good anti-malware scanner included.
