NOTE: This page is made available as a resource to the Bethel Community and is not meant to be a comprehensive guide to removing viruses. The Bethel ITS Helpdesk does not remove viruses from personal computers and cannot answer specific questions about the removal process. If you wish to use information from this document, it is at your own risk and you agree that Bethel has no liability if your computer is harmed in the process or if you are not able to remove the virus.

Viruses are designed to spread and damage computers and thus may be very difficult or impossible to remove. Removing a virus is often a long and complex process better suited to advanced users. If you have any doubts or questions about your ability to remove a virus, do not proceed! Please seek the help of a capable friend or family member. Other resources include professional computer repair shops and the customer support center of computer manufacturers.

If the infected computer does not have an internet connection, please follow these directions instead.

The Removal Process
Print PDF Instructions

Step 1
If you computer's operating system has a firewall, turn it on. More information about firewalls.

Step 2
Download and use a virus removal tool. Most recent viruses cannot be removed with antivirus software and require a specialized stand alone removal tool. One of the better tools is provided by Network Associates and is designated "Stinger." Get the latest version of Stinger now. Follow the instructions on NAI's website for using Stinger.

Step 3
Make note of any viruses detected and removed by Stinger. This information may be requested by the Help Desk.

Step 4
Request to be reinstated to the network if your computer was BlackHoled.

Step 5
Secure your computer by properly using antivirus software and updating the operating system. Failing to do this will lead to reinfection and a loss of network privileges. More information on keeping your computer safe.

Step 5
After you've taken the steps to secure your computer, a second full system scan is recommended to ensure the virus was removed completely. This can be done after your virus software's definitions are updated and current.

This concludes the virus removal process. This process does not guarantee, however, that the virus has not opened a security hole in your computer, known as a "back door." Completely removing a virus may require reinstalling the operating system to ensure that no lasting damage was done by the virus.