Windows safe mode

Safe mode starts Windows with a limited set of files and drivers. Startup programs don’t run in safe mode, and only the basic drivers needed to start Windows are installed.

Safe mode is useful for troubleshooting problems with programs and drivers that might not start correctly or that might prevent Windows from starting correctly. If a problem doesn’t reappear when you start in safe mode, you can eliminate the default settings and basic device drivers as possible causes. If a recently installed program, device, or driver prevents Windows from running correctly, you can start your computer in safe mode and then remove the program that’s causing the problem.

To launch Safe mode, repeatedly tap the F8 key on your keyboard when restarting your computer.  Highlight the safe mode option when presented with a list of choices.

Microsoft Windows Sysinternals utility “Autoruns”

This utility, which has the most comprehensive knowledge of auto-starting locations of any startup monitor, shows you what programs are configured to run during system bootup or login, and when you start various built-in Windows applications like Internet Explorer, Explorer and media players. These programs and drivers include ones in your startup folder, Run, RunOnce, and other Registry keys. Autoruns reports Explorer shell extensions, toolbars, browser helper objects, Winlogon notifications, auto-start services, and much more. Autoruns goes way beyond other autostart utilities.

MalwareBytes Anti-Malware Free

Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware (MBAM) is an application for computers running under the Microsoft Windows operating system that finds and removes malware. MBAM is primarily a scanner that scans and removes malicious software.