How to fix a Windows infection using Linux
If you use Linux on your company's desktop or server computers, you're already familiar with many of the security advantages the open source operating system offers over its Windows and Mac rivals. What many people don't realize, however, is that Linux can also be used to rescue a computer that has been crippled by malware.
Malware is a frequent occurrence in the Windows world, in particular, and it can be devastating. When a Windows virus strikes, not only can it become difficult or even impossible to continue using the affected machine, but it can be dangerous as well, since prolonged use can further the infection.
That's where Linux can be a life-saver. Without ever having to install the free alternative, you can still use it temporarily on a PC to get rid of any infection. Here's how.
1. Get a LiveCD or Live USB
LiveCDs and USBs are a wonderful thing in the Linux world because they let you boot a machine directly from the CD or USB stick without ever having to access the computer's boot records. Not only are they a great way to take Linux for a test-drive, but they can also be put to work when Windows can't.
By far the fastest way to get a LiveCD or USB is to download the .iso file of the Linux distribution you'd like to use and then burn it onto a CD or USB stick. Since Ubuntu is the most popular distribution out there, I'll go with [Maverick Meerkat] — the latest version of the software — for this example.
Ubuntu can be downloaded from the project's Website for use on a LiveCD or USB; download links for other distributions can be found listed on Globalshareware. UNetbootin is another nice option if you want to go the USB route, which tends to run much faster.
Of course, to take either of these options you'll have to have a working, Internet-connected computer. If you don't, or if your Internet connection is slow, you may want to order a LiveCD or USB via snail mail. OSDisc and Globalshareware both offer a variety of options; pricing is about $2.
2. Boot into Linux
Once you're equipped with a Linux LiveCD or USB, you'll need to make sure the infected computer is turned off, and then turn it on again with the CD or USB installed. This will boot the computer into Linux, completely bypassing Windows and its infection. Again, nothing has been installed — you're simply using Linux to get the machine running reliably again.
3. Get Antivirus Software
Next it's time to get the Linux-based ammunition you'll need to wipe out the malware: antivirus software. I'm going to use ClamAV, my favorite, via ClamTK, which provides a nice graphical front end.
From the main Ubuntu desktop, then, go to "Applications" and then "Ubuntu Software Center." Choose "Edit" and then "Software Sources." You'll be presented with a box entitled, "Downloadable from the Internet," and you should be sure all four boxes are checked before you click on "Close."
Next, from the main Ubuntu Software Center page, click on the "Accessories" icon and type ClamTK into the search box. It will be shown as "Virus Scanner," but if you click on "More Info" you can verify it's the right package. Click "Install" and wait for it to download.
Once installation is finished, you should launch ClamTK by going to "Applications" in Ubuntu's main menu, then "Accessories" and "Virus Scanner," which is how the software will still be shown.
4. Run a Scan
When the ClamTK window opens, click on the "Scan" tab and select the option for a Recursive Scan. Next, you'll need to tell the software which drive you want to check for viruses, which in this case is the one that includes Windows. Scanning may take some time, but once the infection is found you'll get the usual options for what to do with it, including quarantine and removal.
5. Return to Normal
Assuming the infection has now been removed, your computer should be clean once again, making it safe to remove the LiveCD or USB and boot back into Windows as usual. As you enjoy your malware-free machine once again, remember that it's all thanks to Linux. It's also not a bad idea to keep your LiveCD or USB handy so you'll be ready for the next time.
Questions and Answers
Article Tags:
how to fix a windows infection using linux
A survey reveals that many businesses, governmental agencies, educational institutions and other big organizations are switching over to Linux. What could be the cause of converting Windows user to Linux? These organizations are also switching over to free software for their application programs from the traditional commercial software. Here are some of the plausible reasons for this conversion at such a fast pace.
Windows computer won't boot up? How to recover data from hard drive? Windows data recovery program can recover files from Windows that won't start up.
You might be using Windows OS but do you know Linux could provide you a better computing experience? There are a number of advantages that this operating system boasts which you won't find in Windows. Explore this article and learn why Linux is better than Windows.
Linux is a popular operating system, which offers a wide range of features to effectively manage data on the hard drive with its file systems, including Ext2. It is an open-source operating system that enables you to customize the operating system as per your requirement
As a professional Technology geek, I sometimes get my hands on the coolest tools and utilities. Mostly out of necessity, as I'm in a crunch and need to get something fixed. When I'm in the field, and need to find that cool little app that does just what I need, I also don't have time to whip out my credit card and purchase what I need.
An in depth look at the new MMORPG from Blizzard Entertainment known as Diablo III, a long awaited release for Diablo fans.
Most small businesses take advantage of computer technology, and it certainly can make things a lot easier for everyone within the business when you do so properly. Unfortunately, there are also a number of different problems that can occur as a result of the technology that you are using.
Copying ipod to computer is easy. For more information on how read this article.
Online training software has found its place in almost all the offices and organizations. It can be used to train employees over the net
According to leading research carried out by Gartner, the number of PCs distributed throughout the first quarter of 2012 went up by 1.9% which was better than analysts predicted.
Dinodirect generally provides coupon codes intended for offers on his or her tools. This site will let you uncover all those discount coupons as well as help save lots of income each and every time you will be making an order throughout the Dinodirect web site.
You could find good quality offers on the net, bankruptcy attorney las vegas some very nice discounts. From time to time maybe you might even stumbled upon a offer hence amazing people ask yourself if it is legitimate. Everyone knows the previous proverb, "If this noises way too fine to be true, in all probability it isn't correct." Effectively, employing situation by using my shopping on the web exposure to price cut reseller lightinthebox.org.
Dinodirect.com has a a lot of extra voucher codes that can help save too much dollars. Click the link under to obtain free shipping as well as A person money associated with if you enroll with Dinodirect. As well, check out the promotional code beneath: Just click here so that you can Get Free Shipping & $1 away After you Sign up Much more Dinodirect Coupon codes :
Electric powered capability to move kid scooters would be the most valuable in relation to individual ability to move possibilities. They can cover anything from $5,500 all the way up for you to $30,000 subject to the thing you need. Before contemplating energy scooters you should look at if this is a appropriate selection in your case and also whether your current insurance policy covers these kinds of charges.
Using speedy development and growth in the marketplace, the requirement of mobile products can be growing at a faster pace. A conversation market is observing obvious change in the modern day predicament around the globe.
Discuss this Article
