Virus Removal Guide for Windows Users in Singapore

Viruses and other malware continue to threaten Windows PCs, and Singapore is no exception. In fact, the number of local malware threats in Singapore jumped by over 33% to 2.2 million instances in 2024. Both home users and small businesses need to know how to remove a virus from their Windows computers quickly and safely.

This guide provides beginner-friendly, step-by-step instructions to eliminate viruses using Windows Defender (built-in Windows security) and Norton Antivirus, along with tips to prevent future infections. Let’s get started with how to tell if your PC is infected.

It’s important to recognize early warning signs of a computer virus. If your Windows PC shows any of these symptoms, it may be infected:

• Sluggish Performance or Crashes: Your computer suddenly slows to a crawl, freezes frequently, or crashes with errors (even the dreaded blue screen). A virus running in the background can consume resources and cause these issues.
  
  

• Annoying Pop-Ups or Strange Ads: You’re bombarded by endless pop-up windows or unusual alerts, often prompting you to download software. These are telltale signs your device may have a virus. Malicious pop-ups might even install spyware or hijack your browser.
  
  

• New Toolbars or Programs You Didn’t Install: Mysterious apps, toolbars, or icons appear on your desktop or browser without permission. Viruses can add such bloat to your system or change your homepage settings unexpectedly.
  
  

• Disabled Security Software: Your antivirus or Windows Defender is suddenly turned off and you can’t re-enable it. Many malware strains will try to disable your security tools to avoid detection.
  
  

• Unusual Network or Email Activity: Programs might start automatically, or you notice your email sending out spam that you never wrote. A virus could be using your accounts to spread itself.

If you notice one or more of these signs, proceed with the removal steps below to clean your Windows PC.

Windows Defender (also known as Microsoft Defender Antivirus) is built into Windows 10 and 11, providing free real-time protection. Follow these steps to remove a virus using Windows Defender:

1. Disconnect from the Internet (if possible): To prevent a spreading infection or data leak, consider temporarily disconnecting your PC from Wi-Fi or unplug the network cable. This isn’t always required, but it can stop a virus from communicating outward or downloading more malware.
   
   

2. Open Windows Security: Click the Start (Windows) button and type “Windows Security”. Launch the Windows Security app, then go to the Virus & threat protection tab. This is where you can run antivirus scans on your Windows PC.
   
   

3. Update Virus Definitions: Before scanning, ensure Windows Defender is up to date. In the Virus & threat protection screen, look for Protection updates and click “Check for updates”. This makes sure the antivirus knows about the latest virus definitions.
   
   

4. Run a Quick Scan: Click the Quick Scan button to let Windows Defender check the most common areas for viruses. This scan is fairly fast. If any threats are found, Windows Defender will alert you and usually quarantine or remove them automatically. Follow any on-screen prompts to “Clean” or quarantine the detected virus.
   
   

5. Run a Full Scan: Even if the quick scan comes back clean, it’s wise to do a deeper scan. Under the Scan options, select Full Scan and then click “Scan Now”. A full scan will thoroughly examine all files and programs on your disk, which can take an hour or more. This can catch threats that a quick scan might miss – as a rule of thumb, if you suspect your PC has malware or viruses, a Full Scan (or even an offline scan) is best.
   
   

6. (Optional) Run an Offline Scan: For tough infections that hide from normal Windows, use Windows Defender Offline Scan. In the Scan options, choose Microsoft Defender Offline. This will reboot your PC and scan during startup, targeting deeply embedded malware. Use this if a virus persists after the full scan.
   
   

7. Review and Remove Threats: After any scan, Windows Defender will list any viruses or malware found. Click Start actions or the provided button to remove or quarantine all threats. Confirm as needed. You can view details in the Protection History for what was found and removed.

Windows Defender provides a solid first line of defense. If it says your PC is clean but you still experience virus symptoms, proceed to a deep scan with Norton Antivirus for a second opinion.

Norton Antivirus is a reputable security software that can perform comprehensive system scans, which is especially useful for a second layer of cleaning or for small businesses needing extra protection. Here’s how Windows users in Singapore can use Norton for deep virus scans:

1. Install or Update Norton: If you already have Norton Antivirus (or Norton 360) installed, ensure it’s updated. Open Norton and run LiveUpdate to get the latest virus definitions. If you don’t have Norton yet, you may consider installing it from the official Norton website. (Norton often offers a free trial – make sure to download from the legitimate Norton site for Singapore users.)
   
   

2. Run a Full System Scan: Open the Norton main window. Navigate to the Security section (it might be labeled “Device Security” or similar) and find the scanning options. Choose Full System Scan (sometimes just called Full Scan or Comprehensive Scan) and start the scan. Norton will then examine all files and programs on your PC for any viruses or malware. This deep scan may take some time, so let it finish without interruption.
   
   

3. Review Norton’s Findings: When the scan completes, Norton will show a summary of any threats found. It will typically automatically remove or quarantine viruses it detects. If prompted, click the button to fix or resolve all threats. Norton’s strong malware removal capabilities can handle stubborn infections that Windows Defender might not remove.
   
   

4. Use Norton Power Eraser (if needed): If a particularly resilient virus is not removable through a normal scan, Norton provides a free tool called Power Eraser for aggressive virus removal. This tool is more advanced – it reboots your system and targets hard-to-remove malware. Use it only if standard scans don’t succeed, as it may flag legitimate programs in rare cases.
   
   

5. Restart and Scan Again: After Norton removes any threats, it’s a good idea to reboot your computer. For complete peace of mind, you can run another quick scan with either Windows Defender or Norton to ensure the virus is gone.

Using Norton Antivirus alongside Windows Defender gives you an extra layer of assurance. Many Singapore small businesses use multi-layered security for deep scans and threat removal. Once your PC is clean, focus on preventing future infections.

Removing a virus is good – preventing one is even better. Cybersecurity experts emphasize basic hygiene steps to keep your Windows system safe. The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) advises practicing core habits like using antivirus software and promptly updating software. Here are essential tips to prevent future virus infections:

• Keep Windows and Software Updated: Always install the latest Windows updates and security patches. Viruses often exploit outdated software. Enable Automatic Updates for Windows and regularly update critical applications like your browser and Office suite.
  
  

• Use Antivirus and Firewall Protection: Maintain an active antivirus at all times – Windows Defender is built-in and free, and using Norton or another reputable antivirus can add experience-based protection. Make sure Windows Firewall stays turned on to block unauthorized access.
  
  

• Be Cautious with Emails and Downloads: Most viruses in Singapore (and globally) spread via phishing emails or malicious downloads. Think before you click links or email attachments, especially from unknown senders. Avoid downloading pirated software or files from untrusted websites, as they often carry hidden malware.
  
  

• Practice Safe Browsing: Stick to HTTPS secure websites and don’t ignore browser warnings about dangerous sites. Use browser extensions or Norton Safe Web to block known malicious sites. Also, avoid inserting unknown USB drives – as offline malware transmissions via USB are a known issue.
  
  

• Regular Backups: Keep regular backups of important files, either on an external drive or a secure cloud service. In case a virus (like ransomware) slips through, having backups means you won’t lose your data. Ensure your backup drive is not constantly connected, or use versioned cloud backups, so viruses can’t infect the backups themselves.
  
  

• User Education and Policies: If you run a small business, educate your employees about cybersecurity. Establish guidelines for strong passwords (and even two-factor authentication) and how to spot phishing attempts. A well-informed user is less likely to fall for virus scams or let malware into the system.
  
  

• Use Legitimate Security Tools: Download software only from official sources. For antivirus, use trusted brands (Windows Defender, Norton, etc.) and keep them updated. Avoid “cracked” security software – aside from legal issues, they often come pre-loaded with viruses.

By following these practices, you greatly reduce the chances of getting another virus. Remember, prevention is key in cybersecurity – it’s easier to stay safe than to recover from an infection.

Cleaning a virus from your Windows PC can be straightforward if you catch the symptoms early and use the right tools. This guide provided Windows users in Singapore with a step-by-step approach to remove viruses using Windows Defender and Norton Antivirus. Always start with the built-in protections and then use a deep scan for thorough cleaning. Finally, don’t neglect ongoing protection – keep your system updated and exercise caution online. By doing so, you’ll maintain a safe and smooth computing experience, whether at home or in your small business. Stay safe and virus-free!

If none of the above methods fully eliminate the virus from your Windows PC, a complete Windows reinstallation may be your only option. For safe, professional reinstallation and virus removal, visit a trusted service center like Esmond Service Centre. Our expert technicians will securely back up your data, reinstall Windows, and ensure your computer is completely virus-free.