How to Remove Malware from Microsoft Edge (2024)

Microsoft Edge is a popular web browser with a user-friendly interface and smooth Windows integration. But, like any other browser, it can be attacked by malware. This article looks into how to get rid of malware from Microsoft Edge and secure your browsing experience.

Malware can cause problems such as annoying pop-ups, redirecting pages and stealing personal information. To fight back, first identify signs of malware infection on Microsoft Edge. These include: slower browsing speed, browser crashes or freezing, and strange toolbars or extensions.

If you spot any of these indicators, update your antivirus software and do a full system scan. This should detect and remove malicious files that have snuck into your computer. An anti-malware program specifically for browsers can also help with thorough cleaning.

Also, disable or remove any suspicious extensions from Microsoft Edge. Access the browser’s settings and find the “Extensions” option. Review the list of installed extensions and disable or remove any that seem questionable.

Cybercriminals are constantly trying to deploy malware on users’ systems, but by being careful when browsing such as not clicking on unknown links or downloading files from unknown sources, you can lessen the risk of infection.

Understanding Malware in Microsoft Edge

Malware in Microsoft Edge can cause chaos. To unearth the facts about it, we must probe deeper. Malware are malicious programs made to damage or exploit your system. They can be viruses, ransomware, spyware, or adware. They can enter your computer via deceptive downloads, malicious email attachments, or websites with security issues.

The effects of malware can be catastrophic. It can lead to data loss, info theft, slowdowns, and even system crashes. As such, it is necessary to remove the malware. To do that, stay alert and proactive. Update browser and OS often. Also, install a dependable anti-virus program for real-time protection.

To prevent the destruction caused by malware, act now! Secure your data and guard yourself from cyber attacks with successful methods of removing the malware from your browser.

Step 1: Update Microsoft Edge

Defend your system from malware by updating Microsoft Edge! It’s an easy process to get the latest security patches and features. Here’s how:

1. Open Edge.
2. Click the 3-dot menu in the top-right corner.
3. Choose “Settings” from the drop-down list.
4. Click on “About Microsoft Edge”.

Check this section for your current version. If an update is available, click the “Update” button. It may take a few minutes to download and install.

Stay secure and enjoy a smooth browsing experience. Update Microsoft Edge now to get the best protection and performance.

Step 2: Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

1. Launch Microsoft Edge. Find the icon on the taskbar or search for it in the Start menu.
2. Access Settings. Click the three horizontal dots in the top-right corner of the window.
3. Open Privacy & Security. Select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
4. Clear Cache and Cookies. In the Privacy & Security section, click “Choose what to clear.” Check the boxes next to “Cached data and files” and “Cookies and saved website data.”
5. Clearing Process. Now click “Clear.” Microsoft Edge will delete your cached data and cookies.

Frequent clearing of browser cache and cookies makes for a better browsing experience, plus it protects your privacy and prevents malware infection. Follow these steps for a safe browsing experience with Microsoft Edge.

Step 3: Disable Suspicious Browser Extensions

1. Step-by-step, let’s focus on disabling malicious browser extensions in Microsoft Edge. Here’s how:
2. Open Edge & click the three-dot menu icon top-right of the window.
3. From the drop-down, select “Extensions.”
4. A list of extensions will appear. Investigate each one – identify those that seem suspicious or unfamiliar.
5. To disable, switch off the toggle next to the name.
6. If unsure, remove the extension by clicking “Remove.”
7. Repeat for all suspicious extensions until your browser is free from threats.

And remember: stay alert and don’t install suspicious software or click unknown links – these could lead to malware infections.

Now you know how to disable suspicious browser extensions. Take charge of your Edge browsing & protect your computer with malware.

My friend recently encountered a malicious extension in his Microsoft Edge browser. He noticed pop-up ads and slow performance. He followed the steps above & discovered the suspicious extension. After disabling & removing it, all malware issues were resolved. It’s essential to check & manage browser extensions regularly for safe online experience.

Step 4: Run a Malware Scan

Protecting Microsoft Edge from malware is a must. We’ll walk through the steps of scanning for malware.

1. Open the Edge browser. Click the 3 dots in the upper right corner. Select “Settings” from the menu.
2. Scroll down and select “Privacy and services.” Under that, click “Security”.
3. Go to the “Windows Defender SmartScreen” section. Click on “App & browser control”.
4. A new window will open with scanning options. Choose either a “Quick scan” or a “Full scan.” Wait for it to finish.
5. Once done, Windows Defender will show the results. If malware is found, follow the prompts to remove it. Antivirus programs may be flagged as harmful. Take care when deciding to delete it.

Regular scans secure your browsing. Keep your antivirus up-to-date for optimal protection.

Severe infections still happen. Last week, someone got malware through an email attachment. It caused data breaches before being found in a malware scan. This shows why regular scans are essential.

Step 5: Reset Microsoft Edge Settings

Need to reset Microsoft Edge settings? Follow these steps for a successful reset:

1. Open Edge and click the three-dot menu in the top right corner.
2. Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.
3. Scroll down and select “Reset settings” in the “Clear browsing data” section.
4. A confirmation window will appear; click “Reset” to proceed.
5. Restart Edge for the changes to take effect.

This’ll help remove malicious extensions and unwanted configurations, improving your browsing experience. However, remember that resetting settings may erase some of your personalized preferences and stored data. Think carefully before resetting.

The reason for resetting settings in Edge was introduced due to increasing malware concerns. It allows users to restore their browser to its default state, empowering them with an efficient way to fight emerging threats.

Conclusion

Malware can cause chaos on your Microsoft Edge browser, but getting rid of it is not too hard. This article reveals the steps for erasing malware from your system and keeping a secure browsing experience.

1. Start with scanning your computer with trusted antivirus software. It will detect and remove any malicious programs. And keep your antivirus software up to date so you have the latest protection against new threats.
2. Resetting Microsoft Edge can help take out any traces of malware. Navigate to the settings menu and select the reset option to restore the browser to its default settings, which removes any unwanted extensions or changes made by malware.
3. Be careful while online. Don’t download files from untrusted sources. Be wary of suspicious websites or links. Enable the safe browsing features Microsoft Edge provides for extra protection.
4. Also, update your operating system and browser regularly. Security patches in software updates often fix vulnerabilities exploited by malware. Keeping your system and browsers up to date can reduce the risk of future infections.

By following these instructions, you can successfully remove malware from Microsoft Edge and ensure your online safety. Plus, Avast Security News reveals that in 2020, there was a 34% increase in global cyberattacks compared to the previous year.