HijackThis

HijackThis

HijackThis is a malware detection and removal tool that's ideal for users who demand more granular control over every aspect of their computer's performance.

Download HijackThis
Features of HijackThis
  • Thorough analysis of your Windows registry
  • Creates detailed log reports on a scheduled basis
  • Includes a task manager and hosts-file editor
Pros of HijackThis
  • Open source and completely free to use
  • One of the most comprehensive malware identification tools around
  • Partners well with log analysis tools like ExeLib
Cons of HijackThis
  • Software no longer in active development
  • Requires extensive effort on the part of the user
HijackThis Reviews

There's a seemingly endless stream of security software that's designed to isolate and eliminate the threat of malware from your computer, and the general trend in the community is to emphasize user friendliness first and foremost. That's a sensible decision. Malware is a potential threat to anyone who owns a computer, and most people don't have the in-depth knowledge of how malware works they need to really understand the ins and outs of computer security. Most users want an antivirus scanner that just runs beneath the surface and keeps their hardware safe. HijackThis bucks from the common trends, emphasizing a specialized piece of malware software that gives the user far more control over how and when they eliminate threats to their machine. It requires more of a hands on approach to oversight and more vigilance, but if you're looking for greater control, it's hard to beat. HijackThis is exceedingly comprehensive. Most antivirus software carefully evaluates what's on your system and compares it to a regularly updated list of active malware to quarantine and remove malicious software or scripts. HijackThis instead does a full sweep of your chosen folders and provides you with anything in your system that's vulnerable or suspect. The result is a view of your computer that's far more comprehensive but also requires an extensive and thorough examination of why these files possess vulnerabilities. A majority of the files and folders identified by HijackThis are likely to be harmless or even necessary for your computer's operations, and simply deleting everything HijackThis identifies could cripple your system irreparably. As such, you'll have to do a lot of the heavy lifting when you use HijackThis. Clickig the "Fix This" button with no understanding of what the script does can be a recipe for disaster. As such, the software is best for power users who already have an intimate understanding of the registry. At the very least, you'll have to express a willingness to do a little research, plug the names of identified files into your browser, and take the time to figure out exactly what each flagged process denotes. If you're looking to get more use out of HijackThis without having to pore extensively over research, it can be paired with a number of other pieces of software that will provide you with a deeper analysis of what the processes identified do. It's hard to argue that HijackThis isn't one of the most thorough malware tools around. The scale of what you can accomplish with the software is impressive, and it can be an incredibly valuable tool for IT professionals and individuals who are eager to learn more about how their operating system functions. But don't expect an easy tool that will clean out your system on its own. Instead, expect a piece of software that really shines when you're willing to invest your own time and energy into making the most of it.

Alternatives to HijackThis

SlimCleaner

Free
SlimCleaner is a software package for cleaning and maintaining your PC or mobile device. It covers your entire system and can make your computer run more efficiently. The software also helps
Show details

Norton Power Eraser

Free
Norton Power Eraser is a free virus and malware removal utility. It helps to search out harmful files and applications that are missed by anti-virus programs.
Show details

AdwCleaner

Free
AdwCleaner is a free tool for effectively finding and removing unwanted adware from your computer or network.
Show details

RunScanner

Free
RunScanner is a freeware Microsoft Windows system utility which scans a windows system for all configured running programs and autostart locations. Contents. [hide]. 1 History; 2 Usage; 3
Show details

FreeFixer

Freemium
FreeFixer is a general purpose removal tool which will help you to delete potentially unwanted software, such as adware, spyware, trojans, viruses and worms. FreeFixer works by scanning a large
Show details

AdwareMedic

Freemium
SAN JOSE, Ca., July 15, 2015Malwarebytes, the company founded to protect people and businesses from advanced online threats, today announced the release of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for
Show details

Spybot - Search & Destroy

Free
Spybot offers a unique technology for your security. Far beyond antivirus Spybot searches and destroys unwanted software and protects your privacy.
Show details

GMER

Free
Gmer.exe -killfile C:\WINDOWS\system32\drivers\runtime2.sys
Show details

ESET SysInspector

Free
ESET SysInspector is an easy to use free diagnostic tool that helps troubleshoot a wide range of system issues.
Show details

Ad-Aware

Free
Adaware is the Internet's security and privacy leader. We offer simple, worry-free solutions that enhance your online experience, Keep connected.FAQFAQ about our products: Adaware anti
Show details