Hi all
I can't understand why we keep getting updates for MS's software Malicious removal tool once MSE has been installed since it deprecates that piece of software -- or at least I thought it did.
Is it used in the MSE Engine or what is its purpose once MSE is installed and working.
Cheers
jimbo
SourceBecause computers can appear to function normally when infected, it's a good idea to run this tool regularly even if your computer seems to be fine. You should also use up-to-date antivirus software, such as Microsoft Security Essentials, to help protect your computer from other malware.
MSE deprecates Windows Defender. The MRT is just an additional tool that's updated and run automatically every month via Windows Update.
It's a pretty good system for the lazy or inexperienced users who'll generally have automatic updates turned on but don't bother to use any other protection. You can skip the MRT by hiding it in Windows Update if you use manual notifications - but then, why bother :)
MRT targets specific threats that Microsoft feels are a high risk to users or are, at the time, prevalent on the Internet. The MRT can be and is released more often than monthly. I've seen it run up to three times in a month. It's another level of security maintenance well worth the very short scan time.
Plus it scans in the background.
Unless you actually keep an eye on it constantly you will never see it scanning.
The most stealth scanner I have ever seen.
So why not?
To quote my Understanding Microsoft Anti-Malware Software post:
Malicious Software Removal Tool
The Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT) scans for select malware only. Microsoft releases an updated version of the MSRT on the second Tuesday of each month along with security updates. Additional updates are added as needed to respond to security incidents. The current list of targets for removal is available at Families Cleaned by the Malicious Software Removal Tool.
The MSRT works on Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, or Windows Server 2008 and is available from Microsoft Update, Windows Update and the Microsoft Download Center.
As explained in Microsoft KB Article 890830, the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool is not a substitute for an antivirus software. There is no real-time protection and, as shown in the above-referenced list of families cleaned, the MSRT is targeting specific prevalent malicious software that is actively running on the computer.
I usually d/l it manually from the MS site to a folder and run it when needed. Do this before you run the updates and it will no longer be listed.
My first question would be; How do you know WHEN it's needed?
Microsoft is part of the International group that tracks viruses, trojans, malware, etc. The group determines what will be the target(s) for MSRT. It is NOT a general scanner. It changes frequently and targets specific threats.
Are you part of that group?
By when, I mean I run it on a regular schedule along with other AV software. Once or 2X a week.
I probably should have clarified that a bit, but it was late last night....
When you d/l it along with your other monthly updates, it runs a quick scan automatically. The update places it in a sub folder within windows. If you want to use the tool for a scan, you have to find it.
I prefer to have it sitting in an easily accessible folder without having to dig for it. That way I can have quick access to it.
I keep the latest version of it in a desktop folder and as soon as they release the next version, I delete it and d/l the new version.
Last edited by Borg 386; 13 Nov 2011 at 10:49.
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