How to Eliminate a Computer Virus

This article was previously published under Q258801

SUMMARY

Windows Millennium Edition (Me), Windows 95, and Windows 98 do not include antivirus programs, and do not include the ability to detect or remove computer viruses. A computer virus is a program file that is designed to replicate itself and avoid detection. A virus may try to avoid detection by disguising itself as a legitimate program. Viruses are often rewritten and adjusted so that they cannot be detected. Antivirus programs must be updated continuously to look for new and modified viruses. Viruses are the primary method of computer vandalism. This article includes information about how to eliminate a virus, including additional security-related information.

MORE INFORMATION

Because Windows Me, Windows 95, and Windows 98 do not include the ability to detect or remove computer viruses, you must obtain and install a third-party antivirus program to detect and remove a virus. For more information about viruses and security-related issues, please see the following Microsoft Web site:

http://www.microsoft.com/security/default.asp

For additional information about computer viruses, click the article number below to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

129972 Description of Computer Viruses

The information in this article applies to:

           Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition

           Microsoft Windows 98

           Microsoft Windows 95

           Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition