A boot sector virus can prevent your computer from starting properly and may cause significant data loss. These viruses infect the master boot record (MBR) and execute malicious code before the operating system loads. This guide provides step-by-step solutions to detect and remove boot virus infections effectively.
Common Symptoms of a Boot Sector Virus
- PC Fails to Boot – The system may display errors such as “Operating System Not Found.”
- Slow System Performance – The virus may consume resources in the background.
- Frequent Crashes – Unexpected system crashes or frequent blue screen errors.
- Corrupt or Missing Files – Important system files may become inaccessible.
- Unusual Startup Behavior – Unexpected pop-ups or unauthorized system changes.
How to Remove a Boot Sector Virus
Disconnect the Infected Computer from the Network
Unplug Ethernet cables or disable Wi-Fi to prevent the virus from spreading.
Avoid inserting external drives that could become infected.
Boot Using a Clean Rescue Disk
Download an antivirus bootable rescue disk (such as Kaspersky Rescue Disk or Bitdefender Rescue Disk) on another computer.
Create a bootable USB using Rufus or any other bootable media tool.
Insert the USB into the infected computer and boot from it.
Run a Full Virus Scan
Use the rescue disk to scan the master boot record (MBR) and system partitions.
Follow on-screen instructions to remove any detected boot sector infections.
Repair the Master Boot Record (MBR)
Boot into Windows Recovery Mode using installation media.
Open Command Prompt (Shift F10 in recovery mode) and enter:
bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd
Use Safe Mode to Run Antivirus Software
Restart your PC and press F8 (Windows 7) or Shift Restart (Windows 10/11).
Select Safe Mode with Networking and download Malwarebytes or Windows Defender.
Perform a deep scan and remove any threats.
Restore System Using System Restore
If your system was recently infected, roll back to a clean state using System Restore.
Open Control Panel -> Recovery -> Open System Restore.
Format and Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)
If the virus persists, perform a full system format and reinstall Windows.
Backup important files before proceeding.
Boot sector viruses can be highly destructive, but they can be removed using rescue disks, MBR repair, and antivirus software. If you need expert help, TechNow provides the Best IT Support Services in Germany for all software issues related in Germany.
Restart the system and check if it boots properly.
