To prevent any malware from communicating over the Internet for as long as possible, start with the offline scanners those that can run without an Internet connection. Some of these tools include the latest definitions when you download them, but others don’t and will need to download definitions before scanning. And unlike full anti-malware software, they don’t start running in the background or set themselves to automatically start when you turn on your PC. Not all the tools I list here are truly portable in the sense of running directly from a USB drive or other external media, but they will let you install on your PC from the USB drive. Why are they called portable? Because you put the tools on a portable drive, such as a USB drive, and run them from there, rather than using the infected PC to download them from the Internet. Several portable antivirus tools can be used to remove malware from a PC. Why? If you continue to use it, or even let it sit there connected to the Internet, malware may be running in the background. If your Windows PC gets infected with malware, or you’re suspicious that it may be infected, you should immediately turn it off. Use your device to send spam or malware.“Lock” your files and prevent you from using them (ransomware).Malware is a generic term for malicious software. If you’ve used a computer for more than a week, you’ve heard about malware, or at least viruses, a type of malware. In a hurry? Here are the best portable antivirus (anti-malware) tools that you can carry to an infected Windows PC to run scans. Note: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

How to Use the Best Portable Antivirus Tools.

Best free virus scanners