Hijack This Tutorial - Free Download May Save Your PC

HijackThis is a free program, now licensed by Trend Micro, which scans for computer changes caused by malware (spyware, viruses, adware etc.), including Web "browser hijackers," as they are called, hence the name.

HijackThis also allows you to see what is really running on your computer, things that the Task Manager may miss, and allows you to terminate those applications.

If your computer is running well, it is also a good time to run HijackThis before problems arise. Should you later get a spyware or virus infection, you will have a reference point to work from.

Who is HijackThis Designed For?

Though HijackThis was originally designed for advanced users, many free online forums exist dedicated to helping others with the program and spyware removal. Consequently, an average computer user can post the data HijackThis generates and receive feedback on what to do to remedy their PC problems.

So, if you haven't been scared away yet, read on to learn how you can save your computer, and costly tech fees, with the HijackThis program.

Programs Needed First

The first three steps to getting the most from HijackThis are as follows:

1) If needed, Download CleanUp! (or similar program) Function: Erases unneeded files that may complicate HijackThis results.
2) If needed, Download Adware/Spyware Remover: Removes malicious files. (AVG Anti-Malware Trial)
3) Download the HiJackThis program. (Direct from the Trend Micro Web site)

Why Files Need To Be Removed?

If you utilize a HijackThis forum the program requirements may vary a bit from the above but should be similar. After viewing a HijackThis log you will better understand why these programs are necessary.

In a nutshell, you want to erase junk and temporary files that collect as you browse the Web or install programs. These temporary files make the HijackThis log too long and difficult to interpret as well as often slow down your PC.

Further, if you run an anti-malware program before making changes with HijackThis, the chance of success is significantly increased.

How to Use HijackThis