Sometimes a computer runs slow, shuts down abruptly, won’t run programs, or in some other way misbehaves. Do I have a virus? How can I find out?
Task Manager
One way to tell if you have a virus running on your computer is to check Task Manager. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open the Task Manager. What you will see is a list of every process currently active on the computer.
If any of the processes look unfamiliar, then you can search the web for information using the process name.
To stop a process from running, single click on the name and click the “end task” button or right click on the task and select “end task”
Windows Defender
Scanning with antivirus software will help you find out if you have a virus. The built-in antivirus software on a Windows 10 device is Windows Defender. To find it, type “Windows Security” in the search bar located on the taskbar next to the start button and select the shortcut to open it. You can also head to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Open Windows Security or select the shield icon from the tray located on the taskbar..
This will open Windows Defender, where you will see options such as Virus and Threat Protection.
This will allow you to run a scan on your computer.
Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes is free antivirus software that can be an additional double-check. Go to malwarebytes.com to download.
Choose the program for your computer.
Choose the Free Download button to use this as a one-time checkup.
Once it is downloaded, run the software.
More Information
If all of these check out ok, you probably don’t have a virus, but you might want to look into other causes.
Occasionally a virus will be found that these methods cannot repair.
This article is a great source of information from How-To Geek. If you still have questions about whether you have a virus or what to do about it, give us a call and we’ll see if we can help you.