How to fix and prevent MBR (Master Boot Record) Virus or Boot Sector Virus

What is MBR viruses?

MBR (Master Boot Record) viruses penetrate the master boot code that runs automatically when the computer starts up. MBR viruses are activated when the BIOS activates the master boot code, before the operating system is loaded.

Viruses replace the MBR sector with their own code and move the original MBR to another location on disk. Once the virus is activated, it stays in memory and passes the execution to the original MBR so that startup appears to function normally. If you remove this type of viruses and if you’re not able to restore MBR, your computer become impossible to boot or start.

Some viruses do not relocate the MBR, just destroy the primary partitions listing in the partition table and your PC cannot start.

What is Boot Sector Viruses?

Many viruses rewrite the boot sector with their own code and move the original boot sector to another location on disk. Once the virus is activated, it stays in memory and passes the execution to the original boot sector so that startup appears normal.

How to remove MBR and Boot Sector Viruses?

Use well known commercial programs like Norton Anti-Virus software or you can download free Anti-Virus software programs like Avast! antivirus or AVG free edition by grisoft.com.

How to restore or fix MBR?

Read this post: How to fix MBR

How to prevent MBR and Boot Sector Viruses?

* Use Anti-Virus software, update latest virus definition and scan regularly.

* Set BIOS setting not to boot from removable disk, such as floppy drive, external drive, or usb flash memory stick.

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