Run an online adware scan if you're lucky enough to still be online If you still have your Internet connection, you can run these free online scans to cleanse your computer of its infection. They aren't guaranteed to remove every infection--almost no single program can do that--but they are a great first line of defense.

I recommend:  Trend Micro offers a service called House Call, which checks whether your computer has been infected with viruses, malware or adware. Panda ActiveScan is an advanced online scanner that detects malware left undetected by many big name antivirus programs.

Download the adware spyware remover software that will get rid of that pesky infection If your viral infection is so bad that you no longer have Internet connectivity, borrow a friend or business associate's computer and download these free adware cleaners. You can store the installation files on a portable USB key and install them from there onto your own computer.

I recommend:  One excellent free adware remover is SUPERAntispyware, which you can download at the company's site, or you can choose to purchase an expanded version. Another great, free adware removal program is Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware.

Tackle a really tough virus and adware infection by consulting with an expert If none of the above tools have helped you finish the job, and your computer is still infected with adware, now is the time to escalate the matter. You have a couple options available to you.

I recommend:  For the brave soul that isn't scared of following a slightly more complex list of directions in order to clean out their computer, Jelsoft Enterprises has created an excellent guide to malware removal over at their Majorgeeks.com website. If digging around in your computer really isn't your thing, you can hire an outside technician from Geeks on Call America to do the job for you. This, of course, is not free, but saving your valuable data is usually worth the cost.