// VIRUS REMOVAL
Virus Removal in St Andrews. Clean Your PC or Laptop
If your computer is suddenly running slow, pop-up ads are appearing everywhere, your browser keeps redirecting to strange websites, or a threatening message is demanding payment to unlock your files, you have almost certainly been hit by malware. It is stressful, it is disruptive, and if you are not careful, it can lead to stolen passwords, drained bank accounts, or permanently encrypted documents. At Repair St Andrews, we have been removing viruses, malware, ransomware, and spyware from computers since 2011. Bring your PC or laptop to 1 City Rd and we will clean it thoroughly, secure it properly, and get you back online safely.
Types of Malware We Remove
Viruses & Trojans
Malicious software that installs itself on your system, often disguised as legitimate downloads or email attachments. Viruses can corrupt files, slow your machine, steal data, or give an attacker remote access to your computer. We identify the infection, remove every trace of it, and repair any system damage it caused.
Ransomware
The most frightening type of malware. It encrypts your files and demands payment (usually in cryptocurrency) for the decryption key. We assess whether your files can be recovered, remove the ransomware, and secure your system against reinfection. In some cases, free decryption tools exist for older ransomware variants.
Adware & Browser Hijackers
Unwanted programs that inject adverts into web pages, redirect your searches to fake search engines, add toolbars to your browser, and install themselves so aggressively that they resist normal uninstallation. We remove the adware and restore your browser settings.
Spyware & Keyloggers
Software that silently monitors your activity, records your keystrokes (including passwords and banking details), and transmits the data to a third party. These infections are particularly dangerous because they often show no visible symptoms while stealing your personal information.
PUPs & Fake Cleaners
Software that technically is not malware but degrades your computer's performance and privacy. Fake system cleaners, dodgy VPNs, browser extensions that track your browsing, and “free” programs bundled with multiple unwanted add-ons. We clean them all out.
// OUR PROCESS
Our Virus Removal Process
We do not just run a quick scan and hope for the best. Every infection gets a thorough, multi-stage clean.
Infection Assessment
We boot your computer in a controlled environment and assess the type and severity of the infection. We identify which malware is present, how it got there, what damage it has done, and whether your personal data has been compromised. For ransomware infections, we determine whether file recovery is possible before proceeding.
Deep Clean & Removal
We use a combination of professional-grade anti-malware tools, manual registry and file system inspection, and boot-time scanning to remove every trace of the infection. We do not just run a single antivirus scan and hope for the best. We manually verify that all malicious files, registry entries, startup items, scheduled tasks, and browser extensions have been eliminated.
System Hardening
After removing the malware, we update your operating system, install all critical security patches, configure Windows Defender or install appropriate antivirus protection, remove unnecessary startup programs, and advise you on safe browsing and download practices. We want to make sure this does not happen again.
Turnaround Time
Most virus and malware removals are completed within one to two working days. Straightforward adware and browser hijacker infections can often be cleaned same-day. More severe infections. Ransomware, deeply embedded rootkits, or systems with multiple overlapping infections. May take two to three days, as thorough removal and verification takes time. If you need your machine back urgently, let us know and we will prioritise your repair.
Pricing
Virus removal pricing depends on the severity of the infection and the work involved. A simple adware cleanup costs less than a full ransomware removal with data recovery. We always provide a assessment and a clear quote before starting any work. There are no hidden charges, and if the infection is straightforward, the cost is very reasonable. Call 01334 478866 and describe what your computer is doing. We will give you a price indication immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did my computer get infected?
The most common infection routes we see are: downloading software from unofficial websites (especially “free” versions of paid software), opening email attachments from unknown senders, clicking on deceptive adverts or pop-ups, visiting compromised websites, and plugging in infected USB drives. In many cases, the user did not realise they were doing anything risky. Modern malware is designed to look legitimate.
Can you recover my files if they have been encrypted by ransomware?
It depends on the specific ransomware variant. Some older ransomware strains have been cracked by security researchers, and free decryption tools are available. For newer, more sophisticated ransomware, decryption without the attacker’s key is not currently possible. In either case, we remove the ransomware itself and recover any files that were not encrypted. We strongly recommend regular backups as the best defence against ransomware.
Is Windows Defender good enough, or do I need paid antivirus?
Windows Defender has improved significantly and provides solid baseline protection for most users. If you keep Windows updated, use a modern browser, and exercise basic caution with downloads and emails, Defender is often sufficient. We can advise on whether your usage patterns warrant additional protection. What matters more than which antivirus you use is keeping your operating system and browser up to date.
Will you need to wipe my computer and reinstall Windows?
In most cases, no. We can remove the infection while preserving your files, applications, and settings. However, in rare cases. Particularly severe rootkit infections or heavily compromised systems. A clean Windows installation is the only way to be certain every trace of malware is gone. We always discuss this with you before proceeding, and we back up your personal files first.
Can you remove viruses from a Mac?
Yes. While Macs are less commonly targeted than Windows PCs, they are not immune to malware. We see Mac-specific adware, browser hijackers, and potentially unwanted programs regularly. We clean macOS infections using the same thorough approach we apply to Windows machines. For macOS-specific issues, see our Mac OS repair service.
How do I know if my computer has a virus?
Common signs include your computer running noticeably slower than usual, unexpected pop-up ads appearing (especially when your browser is closed), programs crashing or behaving strangely, your browser homepage or search engine changing without your input, and unfamiliar programs appearing in your startup list. If anything feels off, bring it in to 1 City Rd and we will run a full diagnostic. The assessment is free.
Can you remove ransomware?
Yes, we remove the ransomware itself from your system. Whether your encrypted files can be recovered depends on the specific variant. Some have been cracked by security researchers, while others currently have no known decryption method. We will be honest about the chances upfront. If you also need data recovery, we can handle that as part of the same job. Call 01334 478866 and describe the ransom message. We can often identify the variant over the phone.
Will virus removal delete my personal files?
No. Our goal is to remove the malware while keeping your files, applications, and settings intact. We only delete malicious files and unwanted programs. Your documents, photos, and personal data are preserved. In the rare event that a clean Windows reinstall is needed, we always back up your personal files first and restore them afterwards.
We also offer software repair, PC repair, and data recovery services. See all our computer repair services in St Andrews. If you know your model, you can book directly for your Dell XPS Series, HP Pavilion Series, Lenovo ThinkPad Series and MacBook Pro 16" M3 Pro / M3 Max. Head back to our homepage to see the full range of services we offer.
// GET STARTED
Get Your Computer Cleaned Today
Visit us at 1 City Rd, St Andrews, KY16 9XQ | Mon–Fri 09:30–17:30, Sat 10:00–17:00