ComboFix

ComboFix is a free tool by sUBs used to remove known malware, rootkits and spyware from a computer. It scans the system automatically and deletes the infections it recognizes. It requires little effort from the user other than a download and a couple of clicks. ComboFix is a last effort after other options have been eliminated. Its changes to the system are hard to undo, although it creates a System Restore point before scanning. A log is provided after it is finished working with all actions that were executed by the software, saved as C:\ComboFix.txt. BleepingComputer, which distributes it, advises running it only at the request of an experienced helper. It was widely used on malware removal forums, where trained helpers read its log.

Features:

• Has an auto-scan that requires no manipulation from the user.
• Works after a simple download, no cost to the user.
• Provides a log of all actions performed by the program.
• Creates a System Restore point before it makes changes to the system.

ComboFix removes many known malware infections automatically and produces a detailed log that experienced helpers can analyse.

ComboFix is a specialised program for the final cleaning of a computer system. Used in the correct hands with the proper knowledge, the program can remove many known infections and repair system settings changed by malware, and on Windows XP it can also install the Recovery Console. Once the software is used a log is provided with a detailed listing of all actions performed by the ComboFix cleaning, and helpers can use this log to prepare custom fix scripts for the program. The tool is no longer developed: the last version was released in 2019 and supports Windows XP, Vista, 7 and 8, but not Windows 8.1 or Windows 10. It is free, no purchase required. Recommended to be used only by those with a moderate degree of technical (IT) knowledge, as its changes can be difficult to reverse.