If your Windows device is behaving weirdly, running slow, showing pop-ups, or crashing unexpectedly—there is a high chance that it could be infected with malware. In this guide, we are going to discuss the 5 most effective ways to detect and remove malware from your Windows 11 system. Read on to get started…
1. Use Windows Security (Microsoft Defender)
It’s worth pointing out that Windows 11 comes with built-in malware protection called Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender).
- To run a scan, go to Start > Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
- Now, click Quick scan or Full scan for a deeper check. It automatically detects and removes most common threats.
2. Run Microsoft Defender Offline Scan
Some malware hides so well that it can’t be removed while Windows is running. That’s where the Offline scan comes in.
- In Virus & threat protection, scroll down and click Scan options, then select Microsoft Defender Offline scan and hit Scan now.
- Your PC will restart and run a special scan before Windows loads.
3. Use Task Manager to Spot Suspicious Processes
It’s always a good idea to keep a close eye on the processes with unusual names or high resource usage that you don’t recognize.
- To do so, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- After that, right-click on any suspicious item and choose Open file location—if it leads to a weird folder, it might be malware.
- You can then search the process name online or use a tool like VirusTotal for analysis.
4. Use Third-Party Malware Removal Tools
Note that programs like Malwarebytes, AdwCleaner, and HitmanPro are excellent for scanning and cleaning deeply hidden malware. Therefore, install one, run a full system scan, and follow the steps to quarantine or delete any detected threats. These tools often find things that Windows Security might miss.
5. Boot into Safe Mode for Manual Removal
If malware is persistent, I’d recommend you start your PC into Safe Mode.
- To get going, press Win + R, type
msconfig, go to the Boot tab, and check Safe boot. - After that, you need to restart your PC.
- Then, use File Explorer and Task Manager to manually locate and delete infected files or programs.
- Safe Mode loads only essential services, which makes it easier to identify malicious items.
And that’s it! These five methods will help you catch and eliminate malware on your Windows 11 PC. For best protection, keep your software up to date, avoid suspicious links, and regularly scan your system.
