Malwarebytes
Best malware cleanup tool.
What Malwarebytes does
- Detects + removes malware (malicious software).
- Cleans up after virus infections.
- Real-time protection on premium.
- Better at finding things antivirus misses.
- Used by tech support pros.
- Available Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android.
Free vs Premium
- Free — manual scans + removal.
- Premium — $40/year for real-time protection.
- Free fine for occasional cleanup.
- Premium for "always on" protection.
- Both find + remove malware.
- 14-day Premium free trial.
When to run a scan
- Computer running slowly.
- Pop-ups appearing on websites.
- Browser homepage changed.
- Strange toolbars added.
- Suspicious link click.
- After scam call attempted.
How to scan
- Download free Malwarebytes from Malwarebytes.com.
- Install + open.
- Click "Scan" — automatic full scan.
- Wait 10–30 minutes.
- Click "Quarantine" on findings.
- Restart computer.
Free Windows Defender
- Built into Windows 10 + 11.
- Free, automatic.
- Sufficient for most users.
- Real-time virus protection.
- Combine with Malwarebytes for extra cleanup.
- Don't pay for Norton/McAfee unless needed.
Mac considerations
- Macs have fewer viruses than Windows.
- Built-in security mostly sufficient.
- Malwarebytes for Mac available if needed.
- Free version works.
- Don't pay for Mac antivirus usually.
- Avoid scams claiming Mac infected.
Free Malwarebytes if you suspect issues
If your computer is acting strangely, download free Malwarebytes from their official website (Malwarebytes.com — DO NOT click ads). Run a full scan. Quarantine anything found. Restart. This often fixes mysterious slowness, pop-ups, or weird behavior. Free version is enough for occasional cleanup. Skip Norton/McAfee subscriptions for most seniors.