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How to Fix Delta Search Malware Removal on Windows 8: Step-by-Step Guide

Delta Search is a browser hijacker that can change your homepage and search engine without permission. It often gets installed alongside free software and can be quite annoying. Removing it is important to restore your browser’s normal behavior and protect your privacy.

This guide will walk you through simple steps to remove Delta Search malware from your Windows 8 computer. Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners.

Follow the instructions carefully and take your time. By the end, your system should be free from Delta Search and running smoothly again.

Let’s begin by understanding a few quick checks before diving into the removal process.

Quick Note: What to Check Before You Start

  • Backup important data: Always save your important files before making system changes.
  • Close all browsers: Make sure Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer, or any other browsers are fully closed.
  • Stable internet connection: Some steps require downloading software or updates.
  • Administrator access: You need to be logged in as an administrator to uninstall programs and change settings.

Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Programs via Control Panel

Delta Search often installs itself as part of another program. Removing it from the list of installed software is the first step.

  1. Press the Windows key + X and select Control Panel.
  2. Click on Programs and then Programs and Features.
  3. Look through the list for any software named Delta Search, Delta Toolbar, or any unfamiliar apps installed recently.
  4. Select suspicious programs and click Uninstall.
  5. Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation.

Why this matters: Removing the main program prevents Delta Search from reinstalling or running in the background.

Step 2: Reset Your Browser Settings

Delta Search changes your browser’s homepage, new tab page, and default search engine. Resetting the browser will undo these changes.

For Google Chrome

  1. Open Chrome and click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
  2. Choose Settings.
  3. Scroll down and click Advanced to expand more options.
  4. Scroll to the bottom and click Restore settings to their original defaults.
  5. Click Reset settings to confirm.

For Mozilla Firefox

  1. Open Firefox and click the three horizontal lines menu.
  2. Select Help > Troubleshooting Information.
  3. Click the Refresh Firefox button on the right.
  4. Confirm by clicking Refresh Firefox again.

For Internet Explorer

  1. Open Internet Explorer and click the gear icon.
  2. Select Internet options.
  3. Go to the Advanced tab.
  4. Click Reset.
  5. Check Delete personal settings and click Reset again.

Why this matters: Resetting clears unwanted changes and restores default settings, helping block Delta Search from controlling your browser.

Step 3: Remove Browser Extensions/Add-ons

Delta Search may install unwanted extensions that keep redirecting your searches or showing ads.

  1. Open your browser’s extensions or add-ons manager.
  2. Look for any extensions related to Delta Search or that you don’t recognize.
  3. Click Remove or Disable to get rid of them.

Tip: Some extensions hide behind generic names, so if you’re unsure, temporarily disable suspicious ones and see if that fixes the problem.

Step 4: Run a Full System Scan with Anti-Malware Software

Using reliable anti-malware software helps detect and remove hidden Delta Search files and registry entries.

  1. Download and install a trusted anti-malware program like Malwarebytes.
  2. Update the software to get the latest malware definitions.
  3. Run a full system scan (this may take some time).
  4. Follow the prompts to quarantine or remove any threats found.

Why this matters: Delta Search can hide in places a manual uninstall can’t reach. Anti-malware scans find and remove these leftover components.

Step 5: Check and Clean Your Hosts File

Sometimes malware modifies the hosts file to redirect websites. It’s good to check this file for unusual entries.

  1. Press Windows key + X, select Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type notepad C:WindowsSystem32driversetchosts and press Enter.
  3. Notepad will open the hosts file. Look for any strange lines containing website redirects.
  4. If you find suspicious entries, delete them. The default hosts file usually contains only comments and a line like 127.0.0.1 localhost.
  5. Save the file and close Notepad.

Why this matters: Malware can use the hosts file to force your browser to unwanted websites even after removal.

Alternative Method: Use System Restore

If the above steps don’t work, you can restore your computer to an earlier state before Delta Search appeared.

  1. Press Windows key + S and type System Restore.
  2. Select Create a restore point from the list.
  3. Click the System Restore button.
  4. Choose a restore point dated before the infection.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system.

Note: System Restore won’t affect your personal files but will remove recently installed apps and updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Delta Search and how did it get on my PC?

Delta Search is a browser hijacker that often installs bundled with free software downloads. It changes your browser settings without permission.

Is Delta Search dangerous?

While not directly harmful like viruses, it can compromise your privacy by tracking searches and redirecting to unsafe sites.

Can I remove Delta Search without software?

Yes, manual removal is possible through uninstalling programs, resetting browsers, and deleting extensions, but using anti-malware software ensures thorough cleaning.

Will resetting my browser delete my bookmarks?

Resetting usually disables extensions and clears cookies but keeps bookmarks. However, it’s good to back them up before resetting.

Why does Delta Search keep coming back?

It may be reinstalling via leftover files or scheduled tasks. Running a full anti-malware scan and removing these remnants prevents recurrence.

When Nothing Works

If Delta Search persists despite all these steps, you may consider the following:

  • Seek professional help: Contact a computer technician who can perform advanced malware removal.
  • Use specialized removal tools: Some security vendors offer dedicated Delta Search removal tools.
  • Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, backing up your data and reinstalling Windows 8 will completely remove the infection.
  • Official Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for additional guidance.

Conclusion

Delta Search malware can disrupt your browsing experience and compromise your privacy, but it is removable with careful steps. Start by uninstalling suspicious programs, resetting your browsers, and removing unwanted extensions. Then, scan your system with trusted anti-malware software to catch hidden components. Checking your hosts file and considering system restore can help if problems persist.

Following this guide step-by-step will help you regain control of your Windows 8 system and ensure your browsers operate normally again. Remember to stay cautious when installing free software to avoid similar issues in the future.

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