ComboFix: The No-Nonsense Malware Removal Tool

Combofix is a freeware application designed for advanced users to scan and manually remove malware and spyware from your computer running Windows XP 32-bit, or Windows Vista, 7 and 8, 32-bit and 64-bit. Video tutorial available. For Windows 10 or better, scanning and live protection consider downloading Malwarebytes.

Combofix is not your everyday antivirus, this tool specializes in tackling deep-rooted malware, spyware, and other threats that traditional security programs might miss. Combofix is a last resort after you have exhausted trying removal with your anti-virus or a program like Malwarebytes because there is no reversing what it does. Once you start running Combofix, there's no user input required; you're just along for the ride.

How ComboFix Works

Unlike standard antivirus software, ComboFix takes a more aggressive approach. It operates through a command-line interface, running deep system scans and automatically removing identified threats. Here’s what you can expect when using it:

A comprehensive scan that checks for known malware and suspicious files.

Automatic removal of identified threats, with a detailed report generated afterward.

Ability to manually remove stubborn infections using the provided logs.

However, due to its aggressive nature, ComboFix should only be used by advanced users or under expert guidance. Running it without proper knowledge can result in unintended system changes.

Installation & Usage

Using ComboFix is straightforward, but there are a few key steps to follow:

Disable antivirus software: To prevent conflicts, temporarily turn off any real-time antivirus protection before running ComboFix.

Download and run: Launch the executable and allow it to perform its scan. You only need to double-click on Combofix.exe

Follow on-screen instructions: The process is mostly automated, but be prepared for system reboots as needed.

Review the report: After completion, ComboFix generates a log file with details of the threats removed.

It will create a log file in the location that you ran Combofix.exe which can be read to diagnose any potential problems.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Highly effective against stubborn malware.

Generates detailed logs for further manual analysis.

Free to use with no unnecessary bloatware.

Cons:

Not user-friendly for beginners.

Potential to cause system issues if misused.

No longer actively updated, making it less effective against newer threats.

Not supported on Windows 10 or later.

The Geek Verdict

ComboFix remains a valuable tool for those dealing with persistent malware infections onoldermachines, but it’s not a casual-use application. If you’re comfortable with advanced troubleshooting and manual malware removal, it’s a solid addition to your security toolkit. However, for everyday users, a modern antivirus with real-time protection is a safer bet. Proceed with caution, and always back up your data before running ComboFix.

If you are a beginner or intermediate user or have a modern Windows 10+ system, we recommend using ADWCleaner. ADWCleaner is now owned by Malwarebytes and runs on Windows 10 all the way back to Windows XP, and it has an easy to use interface. We also have a video tutorial embedded on the ADWCleaner download page as well.

Because of this, Combofix should be run only by advanced users or IT professionals, however, if you were asked by one to run it, here's a video on how to do so: