<p>so long story short, i got a virus on my comp (dont ask how, im still trying to figure that out). what should i do? is there anyway to salvage my comp? i'm afraid to even turn it on because i just think that that would just give it more time to infect more files. so far, i've disconnected my comp from my home network, so that it can't reach the internet (im using my parents' comp right now). some kind of antivirus software already on my comp detected it, and there are over 1,000+ files infected. i come here because i figured that with the smart community of readers on cc, someone reading this must have some idea of what to do. basically, all i know is that the virus is spreading and it tried to connect to the internet, and it wiped out my desktop wallpaper. i'm afraid to go on aim or online because it might spread to people on my buddy list (hence, i disconnected from my home network so it won't be able to go online).</p>
<p>does anybody have any advice???</p>
<p>if there is an external wireless communication switch, flip it off. if it is physically plugged, then pull the plug out. Then turn the computer back on and the anti-viral software (don't know what you have) should be able to delete it. (safe method to not spread it across the network)</p>
<p>what if i don't have anti-viral software. idk if i do or not, but some kind of antivirus software detected the virus, and it said i had to update it, but had to pay. is there any way to do this without paying? im trying to keep my parents unaware of this.</p>
<p>not having antiviral software is akin to not having protection when having sex... not such a good idea for the average teen's computer. if you dont have antiviral software, i have no idea how to remove the virus except to get antiviral software.</p>
<p>If you don't have Antiviral software, run a system restore from a point where you didn't have it. That's what I'd do.</p>
<p>Download and install AVG or Avast they're both free (and good) anti-virus software, then I suggest you switch over to Linux or Mac.</p>
<p>I'd suggest Avira over AVG, but anyways use a flashdrive and download the .exe for installation on a non infected computer then transfer the installation file to your computer. and to be safe reformat the flashdrive after you do that.</p>