Virus rescue disks are a useful tool that can be used to check for malware in instances where your normal antivirus program is no longer operating. They’re available from various antivirus vendors, and they’re simple to use. Users can personalize the method of checking the system.
Some offer a familiar desktop experience, while others offer users a collection of extra applications. For instance, Kaspersky’s rescue disk is powered by the Xfce Linux desktop and features Firefox, Thumar File Manager and a variety of other apps that are able to be used for various functions. This rescue disk has a feature which allows you to choose specific files to be scanned or to indicate if you want to skip files larger than a certain size.
Other rescue disks aren’t as advanced, like the one from Trend Micro, which doesn’t have a graphical interface and requires you to navigate using the arrow keys. This basic rescue disc can make up for the absence of features by being compact and displaying a solid track record in detecting malware during AV-Comparatives real-world testing of security.
For those looking for a more user-friendly option should consider ESET’s SysRescue Live, which features one of the most refined and well-rounded interfaces on this list. It utilizes the same antivirus engine that is the basis of the full-featured software offered by the company. The interface is graphical and allows for a wide range of customisation options, such as a smart or customized scan, exclusions and whether to perform a quick or a deep scan.