What do PC Technicians use for virus removal?

	What do PC Technicians use for virus removal? I'm wondering if they simply install everyday antivirus software, scan, then remove them, or if they have specific software designed for this (ie software targeted at technicians). If so, I'd like to know the name of the software if possible! :) I already know that bestbuy/geeksquad has their own software that runs a bunch of free antivirus/spyware apps, I'm wondering about some of the other retailers, or the average computer shops. Asked By: breadandbutter29 - 8/29/2008

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker
Been a Tech for a while, and we just use the tools that are out there on the net Freeware versions, like the geeksquad. However it's not just that some companies own Corporate or business versions of the software and are entitled to use them for Tech work like we did. Also sometimes the freeware versions or trial versions of software dont do the job. One piece of software may only catch a Percentage of what is actually ailing your machine. It's not as easy as installing one piece of software. The companies that manufacture the AV and AS software (Anti Virus & Spyware respectively) are busy suing each other over their code for finding certain infections, that what one piece of software might find, the others may not and vice versa. Some good software to look at: Superantispyware, Kaspersky, AVG, Avast, Trend Micro, Spybot Search And Destroy, Lavasoft Adaware, etc. Most of those companies have freeware/trial versions... You may also need tools like Smitfraudfix, combofix, and sdfix. Which are more geared towards the professionals/techs. Because some of these tools can cause your windows not to work properly due to the infection that it needs to remove and how infected your system is etc. So use those with caution. Edit: A good Tech will use a wipe/reinstall method as a last resort. Backing up data is not a bad idea, and usually Infections (and again I say USUALLY), do not infect documents, music, pictures, etc. So if it did come to that, then saving those and backing those up is an option prior to wiping etc. Also not just having ANTIVIRUS software is going to protect you. These days it is the SPYWARE that is causing the major damage. Again it boils down to what software will take out the infection or detect the infection to begin with. So yes you can run a virus software or spyware software or both, but will it catch everything? Not necessarily, but it will help. PS. Also some tools worth mentioning: Hijackthis, ATF Cleaner, and CCleaner. Answered By: MrWakeup - 8/29/2008

Additional Answers ()

Seems every body here is a major tech MASTER ....wow!! never have i used a so called tech SUPER STAR removed any and all virus /spyware etc from my comp my self first set your self up with good anti/and good firewall ... just surf sites for reviews and also solutions!!!! Answered By: PEACE! - 8/30/2008

Off the shelf. Answered By: Miea J - 8/30/2008

From experiences, we tried different anti-virus programs until we find one that could remove the viruses. Reformat and reinstall the OS is the last option because we need to recover users data files. These files may contain valuable customers informations and we need to recover them at all cost. Usually, we take out the hard disk and install on another PC as external hard disk. then we recover the data files. Then we tried different anti-virus programs to scan the infected hard disk and remove the viruses. Once we are sure the hard disk are clean, we reinstall the hard disk back to the original PC. If the anti-viruses program cannot detect the virus. We will reformat the hard disk and reinstall the OS. Anti-viruses programs : Karpersky Avira Avast Clamwin Threat Fire McAfee NOD32 Bitdefender McAfee Spybot F-prot Source(s): IT System Support ( hardware/software) Answered By: ♥(^-^)♥ - 8/30/2008

Well, I've been a computer tech for the past 23 years and I've bench tested a few brands. My top pick is Norton Anti-virus, Spybot - Search and Destroy and Adaware (for spyware removal) Answered By: sparky3489 - 8/30/2008

The real techs ergo old school guys just wipe out the hard drive and start over that is the only real way to eradicate a virus and for gods sakes chief don't reload any of the old info from your pre wipe set up (no pun intended on that last line) Answered By: brigman4006 - 8/29/2008

Well, its my beleif that the old school guys try like hell to rid your pc of a virus before doing the "wipe" as described by another answerer. Its all in preference. Most of the techs I know use what they can get for free, lol.. (h***s) I know one used Stinger to help.. but really, you should put some good virus protection on to start with. Answered By: LuckiGins - 8/29/2008

I'm a technician for a fortune 100 company. If a virus or a trojan is detected, a notification is sent to the techs to wipe the machine and reformat. A good tech will reformat. It's much faster reloading an image then spending a whole day trying to troubleshoot someone's computer and erradicate a virus not knowing 100?f it's gone. There are root kits that morph and stay hidden from these anti-spyware and virus programs. That's why often times when you think you remove spyware, after rebooting they come back. Answered By: ChiChiX_o - 8/29/2008

I'm a computer security professional. Simply put, the average computer shops do not have the faintest idea on how to deal with malware (viruses, spyware, trojans and the likes). They are better at dealing with general hardware/software issues. Most of them install everyday antivirus software like what you said and run them, either in normal mode or safe mode. Others simply pretend to tinker about and will suggest a reformat to their clients. I have seen few that bothered to keep up with the ever-changing security industry. The online anti-malware community actually is a very specialized and skilled one, or most of them for the matter. Some of the programmers there put out programs that target a specific malware very well. SmitfraudFix, SDFix, and VundoFix come into mind. They also release free diagnostic tools such as HijackThis and ComboScan. There are also services on the internet that will clean your computers for a fee. An up-and-coming disinfection service is ParasiteDB ((http://parasitedb.com/removal.html). I tend to find that most of these services know what they are doing. If you are hard-pressed for time or simply looking for quality, then this will be your best bet. Just my 0.2 cents, I hope it helped. Answered By: golemAC - 8/29/2008

As a technician student, I simply use a ready-to-use antivirus application that remove viruses, trojans, malwares, etc. I use Windows Live OneCare and BitDefender always up to date. If the virus is unrecoverable, I simply make a backup of "My Documents" folder to save my files and identify them onto another PC to remove viruses. Aftrer making a backup of My Documents, I reformat the computer and automatically install an anti-virus software. Answered By: Travis - 8/29/2008

Submit your answer or comment to this question

Other Career Questions

	What is an example of an entry-level information security job? I am getting ready to go back to school and would like to get into the information security field. I would like to prepare myself for taking certification exams like Security+ Network+ and later advanced certifications like CISSP an C\|EH. Both of those require a minimum of X years work experience in the field, so my question is "What is an example of an entry-level information security job." and also "What degree program would most prepare me to achieve my goal?" Would it be more beneficialcial to attend a university or a specialized tech school? 1 answer - Asked By: Secret Chief - 8/23/2011

	What kind of experience does being a security officer brings you? I want to change jobs and go into more of either a banking area or more so obtaining a clerical/Accounting experience. I had enough with doing security jobs. 2 answers - Asked By: E*Star - 4/12/2012

	Where can i apply for a security job? I need a security job for the summer but idk where i should apply. it could be night or day shift. 1 answer - Asked By: Jennie - 5/19/2013


Content is not owned or controlled by Monster. Any content concerns should be addressed with Yahoo! Yahoo! Does not evaluate or guarantee the accuracy of any Yahoo! Answers content. Yahoo! Disclaimer.

Popular Questions

	Is this normal for an interviewer to do this? So today I went in for an interview and I was going in for the 2nd interview by the head chief executive. now this is where it got weird, so she asked me about my previous jobs and said how much she liked that product over that product. then she started talking about her daughter? an her divorce ...then how she didn't finish college because she was making more money doing what she did for this company ... then she talked about how her teenage daughter is a handful... I just played it cool thinking she was using some sort of psychology thing to trick me into saying something stupid. the interview ended and she seemed happy an I was escorted to the door... now I'm freaking confused? is this normal behavior for an executive? like it felt like she was going to burst into tears at one point and tell me her life problems... is this normal? was she trying to see how I react or something? 6 answers - Asked By: Clone - 11/7/2012

	How do I get a job with Dodgy work history and no experience? Basically- no degree, although I have tried completing one in the past and stopped because of physical and mental health issues which were overwhelming to deal with along with going to classes full time. I'm not stupid and I am quite articulate. I am 23 and have only worked for about two years retail in high school and stopped working to go to university. I worked a few months in 2010 retail after I dropped out but it was only a seasonal position, and the only reason why I have not been able to constantly work is because of mental health issues. I had also tried going back to community college during my free time since i left university in 2008/9 and I had panic attacks while in community college, which made my anxiety worse from then on. Well recently I met a good doctor and he prescribed me some meds that are stabilizing my moods and I feel the best I've felt in years, and I'm ready to work. Thing is, I don't know how to get a job now since I've spent literally years being depressed and anxious doing nothing. I don't really have anything to put on my resume, and I never finished my AA degree either. All I've done is cashiering and although I do the job well and I get promoted easily when I do these jobs because I'm a hard worker and I try to go above and beyond what they ask of me,which is the attitude I have no matter what kind of work I'm doing as long as I'm getting paid. But I hate cashiering because it's too easy and I want a job that is more interesting. Any suggestions for me on how to get a job that is NOT Retail with the type of background I have right now? I also realize I have to go to college to get certain types of jobs, I am talking about what I can do right here right now. 1 answer - Asked By: Alex Prieto - 10/14/2012

	Why honesty, hard work and dedication have no place at work? Recently I have overlooked for a project at work and I am unable to accept it why? I am hard working, dedicated, maintain a very professional decorum, very cordial with my colleagues and bosses, give respect to one and all. Still people who take the p***, argue with managers, gossip mongers have been selected for some very responsible positions at work. I seriously can't get my head around it why, why unprofessional people who have no work ethics being selected over me, whereas I have a track record of excellent performance and never shy away from any work my manager ask me to do? I am at my lowest point and not getting hold of my manager to ask the question why not me, why them who can't even bother? I am feeling like a complete loser, giving years to this place, building my performance, trust and this is how I get rewarded. Why my life is so shit, anything I wish for turns to dust? 1 answer - Asked By: network7 - 11/6/2012

	What do you say when they ask what you want to be paid? ? Wen you apply at a job and they ask how mch you want as a salary what do you say? 2 answers - Asked By: Colette - 11/24/2011

	I have applied for over 100 jobs I have gotten no calls for a job interview, what can i do? As stated in my question I've applied for multiple jobs and gotten no job interview, you name a place I've applied there. I've said i will work ridiculous hours from like 12am to 5am and nothing. I've said I am willing to work weekends public holidays everything and I have gotten nothing back I am so desperate for money it's not funny. 9 answers - Asked By: Jamie - 1/9/2012

	What to wear to a job interview VS a career fair? So I have a nice white button up shirt, business skirt and pants, and a suit jacket. I'm applying for a software development job and I'm very short and can look young so I'm trying to look adult, yet professional. I'm also attractive so I'm trying not to look too sexy. For the career fair I'm thinking of wearing just my nice shirt and a skirt with low heels. My reasoning being it's approachable and attractive without going overboard since the career fair hosts are mostly younger male recent grads. I want to be remembered but not intimidating. For my interviews I was thinking pants, suit jacket (power suit). My reasoning being it'll be older execs and HR people (mostly women) so less sexy with the pants but more powerful with the suit jacket. What do you think?! 2 answers - Asked By: Beast - 9/23/2012

	What is NOC Engineer ?. What are his responcibilites ? 1 answer - Asked By: vishal - 2/23/2006

	How can l find a job in the pharmacitical field as a sales and marketing manager,in south africa? L want to study medicine and work as a doctor but l am limited due to luck of required monyes. however l swtched on to anther career but still within my career interests as a care giver, but this is somthing to do with sales and marketing in the pharmcitical industry. 2 answers - Asked By: tonnydanabwembya - 12/24/2005

	What questions should I ask at a job interview for a healthcare recruiter position? I have an interview tomorrow with a healthcare recruiting firm and I want to have a few good questions to ask about the job/industry, but it will be a new field for me and I'm not sure what to ask about. Any suggestions? 1 answer - Asked By: stephinrado - 5/8/2006

	I want to become an events/party planner. Does anyone know how I would begin my own business in this field? I am in the process of planning my own wedding and I am having a fantastic time doing so. I have always enjoyed planning things: group vacations for my friends and I, road trips, etc... I could be described as a slight control freak and I am a perfectionist. I know I would exceed, and enjoy my career, if I were to make this a possibility. How do I do it? How do I get my name out there? How much do event planners charge for their services? I have a lot of questions, and hope that people who are self employed would be able to give me some pointers on getting my business up and running. Thank You in advance for your time and help. 2 answers - Asked By: Careerdriven - 4/24/2006

	Job description of supply and logistics manager? I am applying for a job of supply and logistics manager so I need to know more about the this job 1 answer - Asked By: waelasfour - 6/19/2006

	I am a student who is working at Deloitte during this summer. What is the dress code during the summer? Being a student my budget is limited so any help regarding specific retail outlets to go to would be very helpful. I am working in downtown toronto for Deloitte (accounting firm) and the summers are very hot here in Canada. Any specific advice on what clothing items this MALE student should wear to work would be helpful. The dress code is "business casual". As if any student knows what that means. 2 answers - Asked By: kamol_yason - 5/3/2006

	What is the difference between a nurse practitioner and an ARNP? Is there any difference between a "nurse practitioner" and an "advanced registered nurse practitioner"? 1 answer - Asked By: lucysmom - 3/27/2006

	Debenhams job application/interview help? I'm applying online for a job at Debenhams. It's just a temporary part time job but I have no previous retail experience, just in customer service, and I am finding some of the questions rather difficult. Our commitment to training and development encourages our people to grow their futures with us. If successful in joining our team, how will you become an expert at what you do? and At Debenhams, our people make all the difference to our customers. If you were a Stock Movement Adviser with us, how would our customers know that you are focused on their individual shopping experience? Any help in answering these questions would be greatly appreciated, many thanks! 1 answer - Asked By: Mac - 9/7/2012

	What does marketing communications means to a manager? 1 answer - Asked By: Gotti girl - 7/23/2006

	Math Teacher? I am going to college in about a year or so and planning on going to school for teaching...I am hoping to be a high school level math teacher and just wondered if you guys knew of any good schools with a good teaching or math program? 3 answers - Asked By: ♥Special K - 8/20/2006

	Where to find Java Mobile Application developer in Singapore ? I am looking for someone (or company) to program a simple (I think) java mobile application, but do not know where to look. Any ideas where to start ? 1 answer - Asked By: ppb - 7/11/2006

	How much does an Electrical Engineer make? I'm thinking of completing an Electrical Engineering degree and was wondering what people are making just out of college and those that have been in the field 5+ yrs. The main careers I am looking at are Design Engineer and Technical Sales Engineering. Any input from people with those jobs would be great! 3 answers - Asked By: MacDadRaj - 3/23/2006

	Why does NCO-RMH in Manila give delayed paychecks to their resigned employees. it's a call center company? I was told by the people in the HR department that our checks have to come from Pensylvannia. Does it normally take that long? I mean more than two months for a paycheck that i worked hard for.? 1 answer - Asked By: nightshades9678 - 8/28/2006

	I want to become an Escrow Officer, does anyone know how to go about it? What kind of training will I need? I know that Escrow is within Title industry in Texas. What would be the best way to get my foot in the door. I am assuming I will have to start as an Escrow assistant and work my way up, but I would really like to find out more about this career path. How does an officer usually get licensed? Are there classes we need to take and exam to take? Any response is appreciated. 2 answers - Asked By: schang25 - 2/10/2006

Monster Communities

Teaching Community: Where teachers meet and learn.
ArtBistro: Create and connect.
Excelle: Networking for the career-minded woman.
Nursing Link: Where nurses call the shots.
More Monster Communities

Monster Partners

Scholarships: Scholarships, financial aid and more ways to pay for school.
Education.org: Find top campus and online degree programs.
Military.com: Military portal for the US Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.
Financial Aid: Scholarships & financial aid.
Staffing for Government Jobs: Staffing and hiring solutions for federal government agency jobs.
More Monster Partners

Job Hunt Strategy

Six Ways to Make a Recruiter Hate You

If you want to blow your chances with recruiters -- and, by extension, with the companies they work for -- here are six perfect ways to do so.

Resumes & Cover Letters

Rev Up Your Resume to Relocate

Hoping to relocate? Get the ball rolling on landing the right job in the right location with these expert resume and cover letter tips.

Interviewing

100 Potential Interview Questions

Interview questions can run the gamut. You probably won't face all 100 of these, but you should still be prepared to answer at least some of them.

Salary & Benefits

10 Questions to Ask When Negotiating Salary

Most of us aren't natural negotiators, but asking these 10 questions during salary negotiations can help you get everything you deserve.

Attracting Candidates

Facebook for Employers: Make Friends, Not Fans

Recruiting? Go where the talent is. See why recruiters have befriended social networks.

Employee Sourcing

Employment Index

November Monster Employment Index Grows 13% Year-Over-Year, Tenth Consecutive Month of Positive Annual Growth.

Interviewing Candidates

Improving Interview Skills: Learn from the Experts

What’s the key to a great interview? According to experts: Practice, practice, practice.

Workforce Planning

Enhance your Small Business Marketing Strategy with Social Media

Social media. It’s everywhere. But how can it help you? Learn how to utilize social media even monetize it.

For Seekers

Campus and Online Degrees: Advance your career and earn more with an online degree.
Free Salary Wizard: What are you worth? Find out and negotiate a better salary.
Research Careers: Get information on jobs and career paths to help guide your choices
Questions & Answers: Find answers to all your career related questions -- powered by Yahoo! Answers
Resume Distribution Service: Our distribution service puts your resume right in the hands of recruiters.
Resume Writing Services: Our experts will craft a keyword-rich resume that stands out in the crowd.
More Career Resources

For Employers

Career Ad Network: Target your job posting to more candidates on thousands of websites.
Hire Right Background Checks: Explore our background check packages to improve the quality of your hires.
Hiring Home Page: Find the best candidates for your business with Monster hiring solutions.
Job Postings: Find the right solution for your hiring needs. Starting at $99.
Power Resume Search: Monster's new search technology precisely matches people with your jobs.
Resource Center: Find staffing insights, labor trends, HR best practices and more.
Target Post: Connect with skilled, hourly and administrative candidates for only $99.

Social Media

Jobs on Twitter: Find jobs in your area and industry.
Monster Careers: Tune into our career advice and discussions tackling a wide range of topics and industries.
Monster Corporate & PR: Stay up-to-date on the latest news. Get the 'Who', 'What', 'When', and 'Why' on all things Monster related.
Monster Customer Service: Got a Monster question? We've got the answer. Whether you're a job seeker or employer, we can help you find the answers you need.
Monster for Employers: Find advice on hiring.
Follow Us: Check out our many pages and stay connected with the latest industry news, events, career advice and job openings.

Are You An Employer?