
Instead, you run it from a special Microsoft Web site. The Malicious Software Removal tool is not installed in Windows Vista. This tool, which is updated by Microsoft on a monthly basis, scans your computer for viruses and other malicious software and attempts to remove any “infections.” Even if your computer seems asymptomatic, Microsoft recommends you run the tool on a regular basis. To remove it, you can use Microsoft’s Malicious Software Removal tool.
If the operating system language is not supported, MSRT uses United States English (en-us).If your computer is running slowly or exhibiting other mysterious behaviors, you may have a virus.Įven if you use Windows Firewall, Windows Defender, an industry-standard anti-virus program such as Windows Live OneCare, and Windows Update to obtain security patches and so forth from Microsoft, a virus or other form of malicious software can occasionally slip through. To learn more about the latest MSRT detections, read the posts about MSRT in the Microsoft Malware Protection Center blog.
Data collected during errors and detectionsįor detailed information about deploying MSRT, IT administrators can read KB891716. Release information, including the complete list of covered malware families. Visit this KB entry for more information about: This KB entry contains information about MSRT and provides links to related topics. Information for IT administrators and advanced users (KB890830)įor advanced information, read KB890830 at. It also generates the following log file: The standalone version available on this page is delivered at the same time.Īfter the standalone version of MSRT scans the computer and removes threats, it displays a report that lists the threats. Microsoft generally delivers MSRT with Windows Update the second Tuesday of the month. If you would like to run MSRT on demand, run the standalone version. The integrated version automatically runs in the background. For comprehensive malware detection and removal, consider using Microsoft Safety Scanner.Įnable automatic updates to regularly get MSRT with Windows Update. MSRT targets prevalent malware families only. This tool does not replace full-fledged antimalware such as Windows Defender Antivirus. To complement your antimalware product. If you suspect an infection from prevalent malware families ( see covered threats). Windows Update automatically downloads and runs MSRT in the background. If you have automatic updates for Windows turned off.