Virus scanning and computer optimization
If your computer is running slow or inefficiently or you think you might have a virus, there are a few programs you can run that may help clean things up a bit. Below are instructions for installing Malwarebytes and CCleaner. Both programs are recommended and offer two separate functions for optimizing your computer. Malwarebytes will search and remove files that may have been corrupted, and CCleaner will optimize your computer.
- Navigate to https://www.malwarebytes.com/solutions/free-antivirus.
- Click on the download now button in the blue banner.
- Click the Free Download button.
- After downloading, your file (MBSetup) will appear in the bottom left corner. Click on that file and allow for it to open.
- A Malwarebytes Setup page will appear. Click on the Install button.
- Another Malwarebytes Setup page will appear asking who you're trying to protect. Click on the me or my family button.
- Click on the Next button.
- You will be presented with an option to include browser protection. You will not need this since you are only doing a trial download. Click on the skip this for now link.
- Once the install is successful, click on the Done button.
- On your computer's home screen, through your search feature, search your apps for MalwareBytes. Start the application. You will be brought to a new page. Click the Scan button.
Malwarebytes will now run scans of your device. The program will let you know when it is finished by updating the Threat Scan in progress line to say that the scan was completed. Once it is done you can look at the reports to see a summarized version of what was scanned.
- Any unrecognized files can be quarantined. Make sure the box next to the file(s) have a check mark in them and select the Quarantine button.
- After the files have been quarantined, click on the Done button.
- Since this is a free trial version, we recommend selecting the Detection History button to proceed with deleting files. If files are kept in quarantined status, files will be inactive temporarily and likely return after trial period.
- Make sure the box next to the file(s) have a check mark in them and select the Delete button.
- Click the Yes button, when prompted with the 'are you sure?'
Now you can close out the Malewarebytes app. If you removed something that is needed, please reach out to the IT Help Desk for assistance.
After running the virus scan and removing any identified malware, uninstall Malwarebytes to ensure that it does not interfere with your normal anti-virus software functions.
Navigate to https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download, and follow the instructions provided.