If I re-install Windows, will it ensure that all types of malware/spywares/rootkits and any other malicious software are removed from my laptop?
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Possible duplication of : http://security.stackexchange.com/questions/7204/is-making-a-clean-install-enough-to-remove-potential-malware – TMR_OS Aug 08 '14 at 08:38
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That link talked about reinstalling ubuntu. Why should one assume that the answers would be same ? – jatrop Aug 08 '14 at 08:46
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2Yes but in this question they discussed about "BIOS/Firmware" malware, so it's true for each type of OS. – TMR_OS Aug 08 '14 at 09:19
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I'm with TMR_OS, I think that answer applies here. – RoraΖ Aug 08 '14 at 11:30
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Snarky non-answer: Reinstalling Windows doesn't ensure the removal of Windows. – user253751 Aug 13 '15 at 12:54
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If your laptop has only one hard-drive and you format it, you should be fine. It doesn't prevent you from getting infected by the same vector again though.
Dillinur
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Absolutely no. It goes back to the "chicken and the egg" thing.. One of the things that Microsoft as well as other vendors warn against is installing/re-installing the OS when you have a virus/malware/or other rogue software. You ** MUST ** have the "bad software" removed and/or disinfected first. It is like the company who is re-paving your street, if they don't take care of what is causing the pothole, it will assuredly be back. Why do you think when the builder of building takes so long on the foundation? It has to be solid. Same thing with your computer, it has to have a clean and solid foundation as well. Re-installing/upgrading an OS is never recommended to remove/clean a system.
Leptonator
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