Introduction
Microsoft Edge is a popular web browser used by millions of people around the world. However, like any other browser, it is not immune to malware attacks. Malware can cause various issues, including slow performance, unwanted pop-ups, and even data theft. In this article, we will explore how to remove malware from Microsoft Edge and ensure a safe browsing experience.
Scanning with Windows Defender
Step 1: The first step in removing malware from Microsoft Edge is to run a thorough scan using Windows Defender, which is Microsoft’s built-in antivirus software. Open Windows Security by clicking on the Windows Security icon in the taskbar or by searching for it in the Start menu.
Step 2: In the Windows Security window, click on the “Virus & threat protection” option. Then, click on the “Quick scan” or “Full scan” button, depending on your preference. A quick scan will check the most common areas where malware is found, while a full scan will scan your entire system.
Step 3: Wait for the scan to complete. If Windows Defender detects any malware or potentially unwanted programs, follow the prompts to remove them from your system.
Resetting Microsoft Edge
Step 1: If scanning with Windows Defender did not remove the malware or if you are still experiencing issues, you may need to reset Microsoft Edge to its default settings. To do this, open Microsoft Edge and click on the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner of the browser window.
Step 2: From the drop-down menu, select “Settings” and then click on the “Reset settings” option.
Step 3: In the reset settings window, click on the “Restore settings to their default values” button. This will reset Microsoft Edge to its original state, removing any malware or unwanted changes.
Using Malware Removal Tools
Step 1: If the previous steps did not resolve the issue, you can try using specialized malware removal tools. There are several reputable tools available, such as Malwarebytes and AdwCleaner, that can scan your system for malware and remove it.
Step 2: Download and install the malware removal tool of your choice. Make sure to download it from the official website to ensure its authenticity.
Step 3: Run a scan with the malware removal tool and follow the prompts to remove any detected malware.
Preventing Future Infections
Step 1: To prevent future malware infections, it is essential to keep your operating system and Microsoft Edge up to date. Enable automatic updates for both Windows and Microsoft Edge to ensure you have the latest security patches.
Step 2: Be cautious when downloading and installing software from the internet. Only download from trusted sources and be wary of any suspicious websites or links.
Step 3: Install a reputable antivirus software and keep it updated. Regularly scan your system for malware and perform regular system maintenance, such as cleaning temporary files and clearing browser cache.
Conclusion
Removing malware from Microsoft Edge is crucial to maintain a secure browsing experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, including scanning with Windows Defender, resetting Microsoft Edge, using malware removal tools, and implementing preventive measures, you can effectively remove malware and protect your system from future infections.
References
– Microsoft Support: support.microsoft.com
– Malwarebytes: www.malwarebytes.com
– AdwCleaner: www.malwarebytes.com/adwcleaner
