While the best defense against badware is to keep it off your computer altogether, you may find that despite your best efforts you’ve become “infected.” If you do find that your computer has been infected with badware, it is important to remove it as quickly as possible.

Many badware applications are specifically designed to be extremely difficult to remove. The use of normal removal procedures, such as “Add/Remove Programs,” is often ineffective. Even when you believe that you’ve successfully removed an unwanted software application, there may still be remnants that can continue to wreak havoc on your computer without your knowledge.

In order to effectively remove badware applications, we recommend the use of both anti-virus and anti-spyware applications. Most consumer computer users have some form of anti-virus protection already. Make sure yours is reputable and updated to best defend your machine against the latest threats. Because many consumers do not yet have anti-spyware protections as well, we’ve provided below several links to reviews of anti-spyware applications. Just as with anti-virus programs, be sure to keep your anti-spyware software up to date.

Please note that we do not endorse these companies or sites and cannot comment on their effectiveness.

AV Comparatives: Independent Comparatives of Anti-Virus Software

Spyware Center at Download.com

The Spyware Warrior Guide to Anti-Spyware Programs

SpywareInfo Software Recommendations

After you install your anti-virus and anti-spyware you will need to run them to scan for badware. Once the tools have completed their scans, follow the recommended instructions, which will usually include selecting malicious files for removal.

If you find you need assistance in discovering the badware on your computer or in effectively removing it, you can also join our email discussion group, and ask for help from one of our volunteers.

Want to help StopBadware in our research and community education efforts? Join our community and help us fight back!