If a cyber threat manages to make its way into your computer, it could be disguised in a variety of ways. While many antivirus software are able to detect malware using regular scans and real-time protection and boot-time scans, a boot-time scan provides an even more thorough defense against threats that are stealthy.
A boot scan analyzes the computer system at a very initial stage, before it launches the Windows operating system. This lets the program detect hidden malware without disrupting normal operations. Avast’s Boot Scan feature provides several options to deal with threats discovered during the scan. This includes fixing the files immediately, moving the files to the Disease Chest or quarantine area, or taking them off.
It can take some time to run a boot test. To speed things up it’s recommended to turn off non-essential startup programs and disconnect external hard drives or USB devices. This will reduce the chance of conflict and allow the scan to focus solely on the internal storage. It is also a good idea to set aside some time during which you will not use your computer for other purposes so that boot scanning process can be completed without interruption.
To enable a boot scan, open the Avast user interface and click Settings (the gear icon). Select Protection > Scan settings, and check the Boot-Time Scan option. Then, configure the options to your preferences and click OK. The Avast boot-time scan is a powerful tool that can help you keep your computer safe from threats and enjoy the smoother experience of computing.