Malwarebytes is a popular antivirus software that helps protect computers from malware and other harmful viruses. It is designed to scan your computer for any potential threats and remove them promptly. One of the features of Malwarebytes is the quarantine function, which isolates any suspicious files that have been detected. But is it safe to delete quarantined files in Malwarebytes? In this article, we will answer this question and explore the reasons why you may or may not want to delete quarantined files in Malwarebytes.

What are Quarantined Files?

Quarantined files are files that have been identified as potentially harmful by the antivirus software. Malwarebytes will automatically move these files to a secure location called the quarantine folder. This is done to prevent the files from causing any harm to your computer while the antivirus software determines if the files are indeed malicious.

Why Should You Keep Quarantined Files?

While it may be tempting to delete all the quarantined files in Malwarebytes, it is not always the best option. There are several reasons why you should keep quarantined files:

• Some quarantined files may be false positives, meaning they are not actually harmful to your computer. Deleting these files may cause unintended consequences, such as preventing certain programs from running or causing system instability.
• If you delete all the quarantined files, you may inadvertently delete important system files that are necessary for the proper functioning of your computer.
• Keeping quarantined files allows you to review them later and determine if they are actually harmful or not. This can help you make more informed decisions about how to protect your computer.

When Should You Delete Quarantined Files?

While keeping quarantined files is generally the best option, there are certain situations where it may be necessary to delete them:

• If you are certain that a file is malicious and you no longer need it for any reason, you can delete it from the quarantine folder.
• If you are running low on disk space and need to free up some storage, deleting quarantined files can help you reclaim some space.
• If you are experiencing issues with your computer and suspect that a quarantined file may be the cause, you can try deleting the file to see if it resolves the issue.

How to Delete Quarantined Files in Malwarebytes?

If you have decided to delete quarantined files in Malwarebytes, here are the steps to follow:

1. Open Malwarebytes and go to the Quarantine tab.
2. Select the files you want to delete.
3. Click on the Delete button.
4. Confirm your choice by clicking Yes when prompted.

Conclusion

So, is it safe to delete quarantined files in Malwarebytes? The answer is that it depends on the situation. While it is generally best to keep quarantined files, there may be times when it is necessary to delete them. If you are unsure about whether a file is harmful or not, it is recommended to keep it in quarantine until you can determine its status. Always exercise caution when dealing with potentially harmful files and consult with a professional if you are unsure about what to do.

Related video of Is it Safe to Delete Quarantined Files in Malwarebytes?