I have a lot of family and friends, who in turn have a LOT of computer issues. I wanted to take the time to share with you a few of the tools, application, and other tips I use to help them out. The idea for this post came to me via Software Candy (@softwarecandy or softwarecandy.com). One of the most common things I run into concerning my friends’ computers are viruses and malware. Here are a few of tools I use to both prevent, or in the case of an infection, remove these nasty things.

Prevention:

The best thing I can recommend to avoid viruses is simple, admit that your computer is at risk. Got it? Awesome, now that you are aware that your computer is not safe when traveling the internet give it some back up with these anti-virus programs. They are free, so NO EXCUSES!

AVG Free Edition – I use this in combination with the tool below to keep most PCs virus free. It has automated scanning and it only gets better if you do choose to invest in the paid version.

MalwareBytes – I always thought two heads are better than one, and with MB in combination with AVG you get that two headed protection.

Removal:

Well…It was bound to happen wasn’t it? You went to that online poker site, lost 50 bucks and got some spyware in the process. Don’t worry, just because your anti-virus didn’t catch it in time does not mean your computer is lost forever. Try the tools below and announce proudly “MY COMPUTER IS FREE!”

AVG Virus Removal - Once again AVG comes to save you when a virus has kicked your but. With a searchable directory of viruses and their removal tools, its a great source.

Hijack This – I have used this tool for a LONG time. It has a great scan to find settings that may have been changed, and can also help with cleaning infected registries.