Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in Windows operating systems designed to help solve problems by running only the essential software and services. By running your antivirus in this mode, you can effectively identify and remove stubborn malware that may evade detection during normal operation. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to run your antivirus software in Safe Mode.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Access Safe Mode
Follow these steps to boot into Safe Mode:
- Restart your computer.
- As your computer restarts, press the F8 key repeatedly before the Windows logo appears.
- You'll see the Advanced Boot Options menu. Select Safe Mode with or without Networking using the arrow keys and press Enter.
Step 2: Launch Your Antivirus Software
Once you're in Safe Mode, follow these steps:
- Click the Start button and open your antivirus software. If it doesn't open, you may need to reinstall it.
- In many cases, antivirus software will prompt for updates. Ensure it’s up to date before beginning the scan.
- Run a full system scan. This process might take some time, but it’s crucial to allow the scan to complete.
Step 3: Address Detected Issues
After the scan completes, your antivirus software will list any detected issues:
- Review the findings carefully.
- Select the recommended actions, typically to delete or quarantine threats.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Conclusion
Reboot your computer normally after completing the scan and threat removal. By conducting your antivirus scan in Safe Mode, you can deal with persistent threats more efficiently. Regular scans, coupled with Safe Mode investigations, can help maintain the security and performance of your system.
