How to remove browser hijackers in Windows 10
- If you need solutions on how to remove browser hijacker from Windows 10, common adware that takes control of your navigator, check our guide below.
- You can try to uninstall the toolbars as you do with any other software, from Control Panel.
- A dedicated antivirus for malware will help you get rid of any hijackers from your PC.
- Consider switching to another great browser with multiple built-in security features, such as VPN and Adblocker.
Usually, when people refer to malware, they’re talking about a Trojan32-like virus freely roaming through your system.
However, there are much less dangerous, but still threatening, adware attacks that can create a lot of trouble.
One of the most common adware bugs is a browser hijacker, a remarkably sturdy and resilient annoyance, that takes full control of your browser. And Windows 10 users are not spared.
Namely, what a browser hijacker usually does is infiltrate into your PC while installing a third-party program or browser extension.
It acts like a toolbar extension that changes your home page and search engine within the affected browser. It’s easily recognizable as it bombards users with pop-ups and ads.
Furthermore, it’s not so easy to deal with it, since it tends to integrate and dig in deep into your system, so even if you reinstall your browser, it’ll still be there.
Because of that, we offer a step-by-step list of instructions you should follow in order to relieve yourself of this digital vermin.
How can I remove the browser hijacker in Windows 10?
1. Uninstall toolbars from Control Panel
- In the Search bar, type Control, and open Control Panel.
- From the Category view, select Uninstall a program.
- Navigate to one (or multiple) suspicious and untrusted programs.
- Right-click on a program and uninstall it.
- Restart your PC.
You can see all the toolbars and software installed into your computer in Control Panel. This is the first place to look when you want to see and remove any of your installed apps.
2. Scan for viruses with a dedicated tool
Another thing you should do when dealing with malware is to use the best antivirus you can get. It can also be used as a browser hijacker removal tool.
It is a great antivirus solution that will protect your computer from ransomware and other types of malware with its multilayered protection, trusted by millions of users worldwide.
The integrated firewall prevents unauthorized access to your computer and misuse of your personal data and also protects your computer from malicious network traffic.
ESET Internet Security
Use a great antivirus to remove any malware including browser hijackers, ransomware or spyware.
3. Reset the browser to default settings
Chrome
- Open Chrome.
- Click on the 3-dot menu and open Settings.
- Scroll down and open Advanced.
- Scroll to the bottom and click Reset.
Mozilla Firefox
- Open Mozilla Firefox.
- Click on the 3-line menu and open Help.
- Open Troubleshooting information.
- Click Refresh Firefox.
Edge
- Start Edge.
- Click on the 3-dot menu and open Settings.
- Choose Clear Browsing data and then Choose what to clear.
- Click Show more and check all the boxes.
- Click Clear and restart Edge.
Resetting your browser to the default settings can help you with several issues and can remove any toolbars. You should save your browser’s favorites before the reset procedure.
4. Use another secure browser
You should know there’s an interesting browser that’s protecting your computer from such threats due to its built-in security features.
Starting with the most efficient Private Browsing mode and continuing with the included VPN, it is not only a safe-side browser but it will also protect your privacy.
More than that, it also comes with Adblocker, Tracker blocker, and Cryptojacking protection which means that the Adblocker also counters crypto mining scripts.
Not only your browser can get infected but also your entire PC. Keep your computer safe by installing the recommended antivirus or any of these great malware remover tools.
That should do it. In case you have additional hardships with browser hijacker in Windows 10, or maybe a solution or two that you would like to share, feel free to do so in the comments section below.
