No matter how good precautions are there often seems to be a way for something nasty to find itself on to a computer. With our ever increasing reliance on computers - finding good tools to detect and remove unwanted software programs is a must for anyone interested in the safety and protection of their computer - especially if the computer contains vital and important information (always remember to run a regular backup).

Fortunately, Microsoft make available the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool through its update site which sits in the windows\system32 folder as mrt.exe and usually runs as a one off in the background following its download (the tool is updated regularly and runs once each time it is downloaded), however it can be run manually if required.

This program can check computers that are running Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000/2003 and scans for unwanted infections by some malicious software programs (currently 100+ infections can be detected and removed).

These unwanted programs are, if detected, removed automatically  and a final report shows the status of the scan.

Even if a computer seems ok and many precautions are taken it may still be worthwhile running regular scans just to be one the safe side. However, this software should always be used as a complement to existing security protection software and not a replacement for it.

Read more about the tool on the Microsoft Help and Support Site at: http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=890830

You can run a free scan of unwanted and malicious software from these sites:

• Windows Live Protection Centre
• Trend Housecall
• Kaspersky Labls Free Virus Scan