DOS virus scanning utilities Which DOS utility is used to scan memory and disk for computer viruses and remove infections?

Introduction / Context:
Before modern antivirus suites, DOS-era systems used Microsoft Anti-Virus tools to detect and remove malware from memory and disks. Selecting the correct tool matters because maintenance utilities like SCANDISK or DEFRAG do not address malicious code and could even spread infections if used carelessly on infected media.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The system is DOS 6.x with Microsoft Anti-Virus utilities installed.
• Goal: scan memory and storage, and remove discovered viruses.
• Utilities named are standard DOS-era tools with distinct purposes.

Concept / Approach:

MSAV (Microsoft Anti-Virus) performs on-demand scans of memory and disks to detect and clean known viruses. VSAFE is a TSR that provides passive monitoring and alerts but is not a full removal scanner. DEFRAG optimizes file placement; SCANDISK checks and repairs file-system errors. Only MSAV fulfills both scanning and cleaning roles in this list.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

After cleaning, run VSAFE resident protection and repeat the scan. Also, verify system integrity with SCANDISK to ensure file-system structures were not damaged by infection.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

b: DEFRAG defragments; it does not detect or remove viruses.

c: SCANDISK repairs disk/file-system errors, not malware.

d: VSAFE is a resident monitor; it alerts but is not a comprehensive cleaner.

e: Not applicable because MSAV is correct.

Common Pitfalls:

Scanning only the boot drive and forgetting removable media; not rescanning after cleaning; confusing improved performance from DEFRAG with malware removal.

Final Answer:

MSAV