How to scan your computer with TDSSKiller
Use TDSSKiller to remove rootkits that block other malware scanners (i.e. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware) from running.
Before you Begin
TDSSKiller is a tool to remove specific types of malware that block the use of other malware removal tools and/or Windows processes.
There are several steps you should take when cleaning an infected computer. Before running TDSSKiller, we recommend you review all the steps involved. Refer to 1550: How to scan and clean an infected computer.
What is a Rootkit?
A rootkit is a type of malware that embeds itself into the operating system's files and processes making it harder to detect and remove.
Once a rootkit has infected a system it can disable anti-virus scanners, prevent malware scanners from running, and can change Windows account permissions, which can make it difficult to regain control of Windows.
A rootkit's primary mode of transmissions is through unpatched security holes in Windows. For this reason, it is important to regularly install Windows updates.
Download and Install TDSSKiller
To download and install TDSSKiller, do the following:
- Download TDSSKiller to your desktop.
- TDSSKiller is downloaded as a ZIP file.
- Extract the ZIP file and run the TDSSKiller.exe installer.
Scan Your Computer with TDSSKiller
To scan your computer with TDSSKiller, do the following:
- Double-click the TDSSKiller icon to run TDSSKiller.
- TDSSKiller will open to a Ready to scan window.
- Click Start scan.
- When the scan is finished, it will display the results with options next to each item found. These options include Skip, Copy to quarantine, and Delete/Cure.
- Click Delete/Cure for each item found.
- TDSSKiller might require a reboot of the computer to complete the cleaning. If you are prompted to restart your computer, do so.
After TDSSKiller has removed any rootkit viruses, continue the cleaning process by running Malwarebytes and other scanners as described in 1550: How to scan and clean an infected computer.