How to Find a Bug on a Computer
- 1). Select and install a licensed anti-virus program from a reputable company. Users can find listings of free anti-virus software by visiting Download.com. Scroll through the listings and choose quality software, according to customer reviews and editor ratings. Anti-virus protection software can also be purchased online or at your local store, via CD or DVD.
- 2). Disconnect your computer from Internet access to render all viruses temporarily inactive. To disable Internet access, unscrew the Internet cable cord from the back of your modem or router. The "Internet" light shown on the front of your modem should be turned off when unplugged.
- 3). Run all updates recommended by your anti-virus program to ensure the download is up to date on all current computer bugs. Many anti-virus software programs will have a selection between a "Quick Scan" and "Full Scan". Choose to run the "Full Scan" and allow the software to analyze and identify viruses found in all files and programs.
- 4). Choose to remove any computer bugs found by the anti-virus protection software immediately. Quarantined items found by the software will also render the virus ineffective. Ensure that your anti-virus software continually runs in the background of your system to block new viruses from hacking into your computer. Turn on system alerts on your software to provide you with updates on your current virus situation.
- 5). Look for any suspicious or unfamiliar programs installed on your computer manually. Go to "Start" on the lower-left side of your desktop and click on "Control Panel". Select the "Add or Remove Programs" option from the "Control Panel" window to see a list of currently installed programs. Research unfamiliar programs and delete any malicious or unneeded programs from your system.
- 6). Regularly update Windows operating system. Those who have a different operating system can skip this step. Click "Start", then "All Programs", and finally "Windows Update". Visit the Microsoft Windows website to find a listing of all upgrades for your operating system and download any missing updates.
- 7). Restart your computer to fully remove any viruses found by your anti-virus program. This is needed as some viruses will hide in registry files until the computer system is rebooted.
