We have already established that McAfee Stinger creates log files for each scan job and saves them to HTML format in the same location as the app's executable. Therefore, users can change their mind and restore any files to the original location on the disk, or permanently delete them.Īs far as quarantine options are concerned, it is possible to change the default directory of the quarantine, or just skip the backups and proceed with the direct removal of the files. Before doing so, however, Stinger creates backup copies for each item and places them in a quarantine that can be accessed from the main window. Infected files are immediately deleted by the utility as soon as they're spotted. All this information is automatically recorded to an HTML log file that can be opened without leaving Stinger's interface. Study scanner details and manage the quarantineĭuring this task, they can examine the currently verified file, scan time, total files checked, identified and clean threats, along with the name, type and action taken for each threat. It also gives users the possibility to customize the scanner by including any preferred folders, drives, removable media, network locations, or the entire hard disk. More specifically, McAfee Stinger checks the usual malware hiding spots on the computer, such as the Windows directory. Clicking the 'Scan' button starts the task immediately and with default settings. The UI is clear-cut and extremely easy to handle, whether users have previous experience with virus removal software or not. On the bright side, unlike most programs with installers, Stinger does not create new entries in the Windows registry, so it doesn't increase the risk of OS stability issues.

In addition to this temporary file, it creates HTML reports for each conducted scan job, along with backup copies for each eliminated threat. However, they should keep in mind that the software tool automatically creates a temporary file at initialization (DAT format) which records runtime data, and saves it to the same location as its executable (it gets deleted by the app at exit). Thanks to the fact that it's portable, users can save Stinger to a removable storage unit to keep it around at all times when they're on the move, and have the possibility to conveniently run scans on any computers they come in contact with, without installing anything. McAfee Stinger does not require installation, so users can just click its executable file, accept the license agreement, and start a scan job immediately. Unlike all-round anti-malware solutions, this utility has a simpler set of features. To cut to the chase, McAfee Stinger is a lightweight virus removal program whose purpose is straightforward: to scan the computer for infections on-demand and remove the files, including viruses, Trojans and rootkits. However, in most cases, it's not advisable to install additional anti-malware applications with such a component against incoming threats, since multiple real-time guards are likely to clash, causing Windows stability issues that eventually lead to system failure. McAfee Stinger Portable is available for immediate download from the McAfee Stinger Portable homepage.Most PC users are satisfied with a complete security solution against viruses and other malware, one which integrates a real-time safeguard, great detection ratio results, minimal impact on PC performance, and a powerful firewall, to name the most important aspects.Īlthough these weapons should be enough to secure machines, regardless of the malware scenario, users have the possibility to double-check the hard drive for any leftover infected files after running their antivirus by resorting to a secondary line of defense. And it's in Format, so it automatically works with the Platform including the Menu and Backup Utility. It supports upgrades by installing right over an existing copy, preserving all settings. McAfee Stinger Portable is packaged in a Installer so it will automatically detect an existing installation when your drive is plugged in. While not a replacement for full fledged antivirus software, Stinger is updated multiple times a week to include detection for newer Fake Alert variants and prevalent viruses. McAfee Stinger detects and removes prevalent Fake Alert malware and threats identified in the 'List Viruses' section of the Stinger application. Update automatically or install from the portable app store in the Platform.

McAfee Stinger is freeware for business and personal use. It's packaged in Format so it can easily integrate with the Platform. It is not a replacement for a full antivirus, but handy in many situations. McAfee Stinger removes thousands of common viruses and 'fake alert' malware on-demand. A new version of McAfee Stinger Portable has been released.

Mcafee stinger removal tool