Computer Is Extremely Slow and Internet Access Has Stopped After Malware Was Detected

A factory reset or clean installation is usually the most reliable way to remove persistent malware. Before doing it, make sure you have backups of documents, photos, and other irreplaceable files, but don’t back up suspicious software or blindly restore every old application afterward.

Check your browser extensions, proxy settings, and recently installed applications. Adware or a browser hijacker may not be fully removed by a normal scan and can cause redirects, pop-ups, or apparent connection problems. Windows’ built-in security scan is also worth running, though a full scan may take a long time.

Slow internet by itself doesn’t prove there’s a virus. Restart the computer and try running Malwarebytes again in Windows Safe Mode, where fewer background programs and services are active.

If you’re confident the system is compromised, back up only essential personal files and then perform a clean Windows reinstall. Avoid copying unknown programs or executables, and scan the backup from a trusted computer before restoring anything.