Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool (KB890830) x64

Question

My computer was delivered after the latest removal tool was updated. Therefore I downloaded the 64 bit version of the tool and ran a full system scan. No infections were found. Why isn't the removal tool shown in my programs, windows updates, or hidden updates? I tried rebooting to see if it would show, but it didn't.

I am running Windows 7 Ultimate, 64 bit. There was some confusing wording on the Microsoft download site as to whether or not the program would work with my system, even though it listed Windows 7 in the Overview. After the Overview paragraph it stated, "Note that x64 version of this tool will only run on Vista x64, Windows XP x64 and Windows 2003 x64 computers.".

(I just realized that my system is running Windows Defender. Should I even need the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool, or will I get it on the next Windows update?)

<Moved from Windows  / Windows 7>

Answer 1

My computer was delivered after the latest removal tool was updated. Therefore I downloaded the 64 bit version of the tool and ran a full system scan. No infections were found. Why isn't the removal tool shown in my programs, windows updates, or hidden updates?

One assumes it's a Win7 64-bit computer.

The Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool helps remove specific, prevalent malicious software...

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/890830

WYSIWYG when you download/run the Malicious Software Removal Tool, whether you do it manually or via Windows Update. The tool simply downloads & runs; if nothing's found, it just "goes away."

[Believe me: If something has been found, you'd know about it!]

If you want to review the log, open %Windir%\Debug*Mrt.log <=this file* (typically C:\Windows\Debug\Mrt.log).

---

~Robear Dyer (PA Bear) ~ MS MVP (IE, Mail, Security, Windows & Update Services) since 2002 ~ Disclaimer: MS MVPs neither represent nor work for Microsoft

Answer 2

Hi Chas,

Do you actually have a full antivirus product installed?  The Malicious Software Removal Tool and Windows Defender do not count as full-time virus scanners. I believe the Malicious SW Removal Tool is simply an executable you can search for on your hard drive. Please check though your programs list for a virus scanner.  Some of the more popular ones available are McAfee, Symantec, Norton, and Trend Micro (there are many more). 

If you don't have a full virus scanner installed, you might want to check out Microsoft Security Essentials or avast!  Both products are free full-time scanners and do a good job at keeping viruses away.  (It's a very bad idea to have two full-time virus scanners running, so make sure one isn't installed before you install another).

Microsoft Security Essentials

avast!

After installing one of these programs, it would be a good idea for you to run a full scan. 

Barbara

Answer 3

They are two different products.  Windows Defender is not considered a virus scanner, but searches for spyware.  The Malicious Software Removal Tool does get updated when the regular patches are released.  To go back to your initial question, you really don't need the Malicious SW Removal Tool unless you suspect you have been infected.

If you'd like more info, here's a link from Microsoft that spells out what each of their security offerings provide:  http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/defender/software.mspx

Have a great day,

Barbara

Answer 4

You're very welcome.  Glad to help.

Barbara

Answer 5

Barbara,

The computer came with Mcafee installed, and is running, and states that my system is protected. I was used to getting the Malicious Removal Updates on my old computer. The new computer was delivered to me after Microsoft's April update. Maybe I'll see an installation, or update, after Microsoft's May updates. It was just a question as to whether Defender and the Malicious Removal Tool essentially do the same thing. I'll probably just wait and see what happens on the next update.

Thanks again for your help,

Chas