Introduction
Do you know that prevalent malware can be extremely damaging to your Windows computer? It can slow down your device, steal data, damage your files, or even take full control of your computer. Scary, right? Well, the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT) is a scanner that Microsoft provides to scan and remove prevalent malware from your Windows computer. MSRT usually comes as a part of an update, but it can also be downloaded as a tool. It is updated on a monthly basis to remove the new threats.
MSRT provides extra protection and works independently of your antivirus software. It can also reverse the already done damage to your Windows computer caused by any virus. The best thing about MSRT is that it's free and quite easy to run.
How it Works
Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool is manually executed as it cannot be installed in the Start menu. It works in three simple steps
1. Scan
When you run the tool, it initially scans your system for known threats. Its focus is on the most dangerous threat instead of the full range of viruses.
2. Remove Prevalent Malware
After the scan, the next step is to identify the threat, automatically remove it, and reverse the damage it has caused.
3. Report Results
The third step is that MSRT reports to you if it found and removed anything.
MSRT updates automatically every month, so you don’t have to worry about getting it updated manually.
When it Should be Used
Basically, the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool is used to clean your Windows computer of certain malware attacks. Whenever there is a malware outbreak, MSRT is used. However, the default use of MSRT is monthly security scans. You can also run it manually if you suspect any threat. You can do it instantly without installing any antivirus. Sometimes, the main antivirus slips something threatening; MSRT can be used to wipe out any leftover damages to make your Windows computer safe.
Although it is a useful tool, it can not replace a full-fledged and dedicated antivirus program. Let’s discuss the limitations of the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool further.
Limitations of Windows Tools
As mentioned earlier, along with all the benefits, MSRT has its own limitations. MSRT overlooks small and common threats as it focuses only on bigger malware.
Another limitation is that MSRT only functions on demand or during monthly updates. It can detect or stop a threat from entering your system.
MSRT also misses deep and hidden threats. It can scan and detect only apparent and shallow malware. It doesn’t have multi-layered security; that’s why it lacks important features like password managers and VPNs.
Many third-party program uninstallers offer secure browsing features, but MSRT doesn’t. In short, the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool is designed to clean up viruses after detection, not to stop them from entering in the first place.
To deal with all above mentioned limitations of MSRT, a third-party program uninstaller can be a better option. Let’s discover how.
Why third-party Program Uninstallers are a Better Option
Third-party uninstallers are software that is designed to remove other unwanted software from Windows computers. Because sometimes, built-in uninstallers are not fully equipped to do so. There are a few points to advocate that a third-party uninstaller indeed is a better option.
Conclusion
The Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT) is a free and default security tool that ensures the safety and security of your Windows computer. It is updated on a monthly basis and reports the results. However, it is not a replacement for a dedicated external antivirus program. It has its limitations. For complete protection, security, and efficiency of your Windows computer, a third-party program uninstallation is a better option.
