Basically there are only two types of free malware removal software. The first includes super-targeted tools that usually tackled certain type of malware or even one particular virus. Programs of a broader action belong to the second group.

Depending on each particular infection case, it might be not that easy to remove malware. Many types of parasites exist in the World Wide Web and numerous teams of cyber criminals replenish the stock on an hourly basis. This makes it hard for coders of anti-malware tools to stay one step ahead of the competition and meet the demands of security needs of average PC owners.

The very first step towards removing malware is preventing it from reaching your operating system. Preventing is better than fighting, but in case with Windows it is especially true. Even successful removal of the malware is not the guarantee of the system restored to previous state. There are chances of corrupt settings and damaged core files of the environment. So a cured computer is not same as never infected one.

For home users, anti malware prevention measures are common yet often not taken seriously. You need to install and keep updates 3 main components of the computer defense.

Firewall. This is the gate keeper of Windows-controlled computer. When properly configured it is responsible for distinguishing bad traffic from good traffic, and blocking the first one. Firewalls prevent various types of outbound attacks. While Windows features a built-in firewall, for maximum anti malware protection it is best to use a third party software like Zone Alarm or Online Armor (both are free).
Antivirus software. This is so evident, yet many PC owners simply forget to setup effective antivirus protection. Nowadays it’s hard to choose one particular antivirus because the choice is so impressive. However, consider reading some reviews before making a choice. Once antivirus is installed, keep it updated and do regular full system scans to remove malware that somehow manages to creep into. It happens with all antivirus programs, so there’s a sound reason to have one more security component up and running:
Anti-spyware. Several years ago this type of software was presented with few programs; now they’re numerous. Latest generation of anti-spyware programs are called anti-malware because they cover a much broader range of threats. Some of anti-malware suites include antivirus engine as well, so their efficiency increases significantly.

Choosing anti malware is the most difficult task. My suggestion is that you start evaluating products by the following criterion: option to remove malware in free edition of the software. If you’re offered a mere scan, after which you’re prompted to pay for the license key, it’s a bit unethical. In case your computer has some serious infections buying a key is risky ? you should do any transaction on a malware-free PC only, with no exceptions.

Another important thing to look for is the number of malware types detected by the software. A good anti malware should be able to fight a range of annoyances, from trojan viruses to classic adware, from browser hijacks to rootkits.

A good free malware removal program has no time limits ? it allows manual updating of definitions and works as on-demand scanner.