Windows isn’t opening when I press the key. same with search and Avast found two malware things that won’t go away when i try to resolve them.

Troubleshooting Persistent Windows and Malware Issues: A Comprehensive Guide

Encountering repeated technical issues on your Windows computer can be both frustrating and disruptive to your daily activities. If you’re experiencing problems such as Windows not responding to key presses, unresponsive search functions, and persistent malware detections, you’re not alone. This guide aims to help you systematically diagnose and resolve these common yet vexing problems.

Common Symptoms and Challenges

Keyboard and Search Function Failures: Pressing the Windows key or clicking on search functionalities results in no response.
Stalled Windows Updates: Attempts to check for or install updates hang indefinitely, with the search process never completing.
Clipboard and Sign-In Issues: The clipboard remains blank, and Microsoft account sign-in processes fail when attempting to add new accounts.
Persistent Malware Alerts: Antivirus scans, particularly with Avast, detect malware but are unable to fully remove or quarantine the threats.
Antivirus Scan Interruptions: Antivirus tools reach near-completion but stop abruptly, leaving threats unresolved.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Strategy

1. Initial System Checks

Restart Your Computer: A simple reboot can sometimes resolve temporary glitches.
Verify Date and Time Settings: Incorrect settings can interfere with system operations, including Windows Update and account sign-in.

2. Run Built-in Windows Troubleshooters

Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
Run troubleshooters for Windows Update, Search and Indexing, and Bluetooth if applicable.
If the troubleshooters fail, consider resetting components manually.

3. Use Windows System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Run sfc /scannow to detect and repair corrupted system files.
Follow up with DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth to repair the Windows image.

4. Addressing Malware Infections

Update Antivirus Definitions: Ensure Avast is up-to-date.
Run a Deep Malware Scan in Safe Mode:
Restart your PC in Safe Mode (hold Shift while clicking Restart).
Launch Avast and perform a full system scan.
Use Additional Malware Removal Tools: Consider malware-specific tools like Malwarebytes for a second opinion.