My PC isn't opening because of virus.What can I do?

Step 0. Be *sure* it's a virus. There are other things (hardware faults, faulty hard disk drive, etc) that can stop the computer. Check what you can first.

Let's go.

You'll need a bootable CD that lets you run your PC *without* needing to read your hard disk drive, *and* has anti-virus software. McAfee, Norton and AVG, probably have these - ask at your local software shop.

1. Hold down the Del key when you turn it on. This should take you to the BiOS, the program that's in a chip on the main board. It's usually large writing, white on blue. If you can do this, go to step 2. Some computers use the F1 key instead of Del, and there are other, less common keys to use. If you can't open the biOS any way, you need expert help.

2. If you can open the biOS, you'll need to find the screen that shows "Boot From", and see whether you can set if to "Boot From CD" (or similar). If you can, do that. Press the Esc key, press F10, then agree to save changes.

3. Put the boot CD into your CD drive, and restart the computer.

4. The computer should read the CD, boot from it, and show the opening menu for the anti-virus program. Run it and follow instructions.

5. If this doesn't work, or you don't understand the above, you need pro help.