If malware is preventing you data security software from being able to run the normal antivirus software bootable rescue disks could help. These tools let you check your computer for malware without having to run Windows and they will often locate files that antivirus software could ignore. Certain tools can scan the Master Boot Record of the hard drive. This is a feature that is particularly beneficial to eliminate persistent or difficult-to clean threats.
These bootable tools typically offer a basic text interface, however they do have customization options, so you can select to scan specific folders or files, or only size or type of file, and more. The most effective of these tools will feature a an interactive user interface that is graphical and support for more advanced threats such as rootkits and ransomware.
AVG Rescue CD, with its basic but extensive GUI, and many scanning options, is a great example. It’s also among the few programs that can do an entire MBR scanning which is usually impossible with a non-bootable application. However it’s not among the fastest on this list and its text-only interface isn’t suitable for all users.
Kaspersky Rescue Disk is another top option that’s fast, has well-designed interface and can handle more advanced infections. It offers features that you will not find in other bootable anti-virus tools, for instance, the ability to scan the boot sector and hidden startup objects as well fileless and the entire drive. You can also set exclusions in order to cut down the time required to scan. In our tests, it identified all malware samples we sent it, including some that evaded detection by other antivirus programs.