Malware & SSD

[Tony Cole]

Hi Everyone

If my SSD were to become infected with a rootkit, or other serious malware/infection would re-installing Windows solve the problem? I ask because when installing Windows you get the option to format the drive, however you cannot format a SSD.

Tony

 

[NullPointerException]

Most of the times, yes. Otherwise, when malware infects the BIOS, nope. However, those infections are very, very rare. If you think you're infected, you can create a thread at Malware Removal Assistance.

 

[Geri]

Why not? Well I formated my ssd yesterday...lol

 

[Tony Cole]

Thanks for the advice/info. No I'm not infected, I just wanted to know what the outcome might be if you get infected. I've heard that you can not, nor should not format an SSD, is this true?

 

[Geri]

Thanks for the advice/info. No I'm not infected, I just wanted to know what the outcome might be if you get infected. I've heard that you can not, nor should not format an SSD, is this true?

maybe should not, but I didn't read about it before I reinstalled my OS, my bad. well after all everything is working fine

 

[jamescv7]

You're correct that SSD doesn't recommended to make that operation in order to reformat Windows but here's a case "solved" solution on this link: http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/281081-32-formatting-secure-erase-quick-format

 

[NullPointerException]

No idea. You could ask another user.

 

[DanielN]

Thanks for the advice/info. No I'm not infected, I just wanted to know what the outcome might be if you get infected. I've heard that you can not, nor should not format an SSD, is this true?

It is generally not recommended. From what I've heard, formatting an SSD does not bring it to a fresh, clean state. A secure erase on the other hand does. That being said, I'm glad you are not infected with a rootkit or anything of the sort. Those things are nasty. Just make sure you are well protected. I for example have my PC well protected with a layer of AV, anti-malware and instant restore software.