To remove malware, is it best to boot from an external source?

Question

There are ways to boot windows from a USB drive. Would that be the
best way to remove malware from an infected PC?

My reasoning is: once an infected computer has booted, the malware is
already running. That malware may prevent the installation of anti-
malware software. Or, it may prevent anti-malware software from
updating, or otherwise running correctly.

On the other hand, if the malware has disguised itself as legitimate
windows system files, then if you from an external drive, the software
on that external drive may not recognize the disguised malware.

Answer 1

Turn on your computer and boot it into Safe Mode (Google search your computer and operating system to find out which F key that is).



Then run any anti virus software you have on your computer. If you don't have any, try this site http://www.avast.com/en-gb/index



Once the scan is complete, shut down your computer and reboot as you would do normally.



This method should have taken the malware off of your pc.



The best way to get rid of any malware or viruses is to wipe the hard drive clean and reinstall the operating system.

Answer 2

If you have a bootable AV disc, then that will be the best choice if you are troubled by malware that is hiding in files that cannot be disinfected while the OS is running. They may not even be removable in Safe Mode sometimes.

Answer 3

Boot in safe mode and remove malware.