Think a PC is infected but its antivirus is broken, missing or won't install? Emsisoft Emergency Kit is a free portable scanner you run from a folder or USB stick to find and clean malware, as a second opinion beside your usual antivirus.
Portable scanning and cleanup
The kit runs without a software installation, so it can be started on a Windows computer that needs an on-demand malware check. The graphical scanner hunts for viruses, ransomware, trojans, bots and other malware.
After a scan, detected items can be moved into quarantine or removed. The cleanup process can also restore system settings damaged by malware. That combination makes the kit suitable for examining an infected computer and carrying out remediation from the same toolkit.
Which scanner fits the task?
The kit includes two ways to run scans. The graphical scanner provides a user interface; the Commandline Scanner offers the same scanning functionality through commands and is intended for automated work.
- Use the graphical scanner for an interactive scan and cleanup.
- Use the command-line tool for scripted or automated scans.
- Command-line options include scanning a drive, checking memory and registry traces, and enabling archive support.
Detection updates and remediation
A one-click update refreshes both the software and its malware detection data. Keeping those components current matters when the kit is brought out to examine a newly infected computer.
The scanning technology uses Emsisoft's dual-scanner approach. For command-line scans, detected malware can be directed to a quarantine location; the graphical scanner provides the interactive route for scanning and cleaning.
Pros
- Portable scanning requires no software installation
- Cleanup can quarantine or remove threats and restore damaged settings
- One-click updates cover both the program and its detection data
- Command-line scanning supports automated jobs
Cons
- On-demand only, no real-time protection
- Needs 64-bit Windows 10 or later
- Large download because detection data is included
System requirements: Windows 10, Windows 11 · 64-bit only
Does Emsisoft Emergency Kit need to be installed?
No. Extract it to a folder or USB drive and run it; nothing is installed on the PC.
Is it free?
Yes, for private use. Business use requires a license.
Can scans be automated?
Yes. The Commandline Scanner runs scripted scans of drives, memory and registry traces, with archive scanning and quarantine options.
Does the kit protect the PC continuously?
No. It scans on demand only; keep a regular antivirus for real-time protection.
