How to Remove a Virus from Windows 11

If your Windows 11 computer is running slowly, showing unexpected pop-ups, or behaving strangely, you may have a virus. This guide walks you through how to safely identify and remove viruses and malware from your Windows 11 PC or laptop.

Signs Your Windows 11 PC Has a Virus

• Computer running significantly slower than usual
• Unexpected pop-up advertisements appearing
• Browser homepage or search engine has changed without your input
• Programs opening or closing on their own
• Antivirus software has been disabled or won't run
• Unusual network activity or high data usage
• Files have been encrypted or gone missing
• Ransom messages or warnings appearing on screen

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

As soon as you suspect a virus, disconnect your computer from the internet. This prevents the malware from communicating with its command server, spreading to other devices on your network, or exfiltrating your data.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with only the essential drivers and services, which prevents most malware from loading. To boot into Safe Mode on Windows 11:

1. Click the Start menu and select Settings
2. Go to System > Recovery
3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now
4. After restart, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings
5. Click Restart, then press F4 for Safe Mode or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking

Step 3: Run Windows Defender

Windows 11 includes Windows Defender (Microsoft Defender Antivirus), which is a capable free antivirus tool. In Safe Mode:

1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu
2. Click Virus & threat protection
3. Click Scan options and select Full scan
4. Click Scan now and wait for it to complete
5. Follow the prompts to remove any detected threats

Step 4: Use Malwarebytes for a Second Opinion

Even after running Windows Defender, it's worth running a second scan with Malwarebytes Free. Download it from the official Malwarebytes website, install it, and run a full scan. Malwarebytes is particularly good at detecting adware, spyware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) that Windows Defender may miss.

Step 5: Check for Suspicious Programs

Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps and look for any programs you don't recognise or didn't install. Sort by install date to spot recently added suspicious software. Uninstall anything you don't recognise.

Step 6: Reset Your Browser

Many viruses target your web browser to redirect searches, show ads, or steal passwords. Reset your browser to its default settings:

• Chrome: Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults
• Edge: Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values
• Firefox: Help > More troubleshooting information > Refresh Firefox

When to Call a Professional

If the virus persists after following these steps, or if you're dealing with ransomware that has encrypted your files, it's time to call a professional. Our virus removal service in London provides same-day remote and on-site virus removal with a no fix, no fee guarantee.