A user's computer was infected with malware, and a technician successfully removed the infection. However, the user reports certain web-based services are still inaccessible. Which of the following…

Turning off System Restore removes available restore points but does not address any malware-altered browser or network settings that are causing the ongoing inaccessibility.

Updating malware signatures improves detection of future threats but has no effect on settings that the already-removed malware changed during the infection.

Malware frequently alters Internet Explorer settings - including proxy server entries, home page, security zones, and add-ons - to redirect traffic or block specific sites. Resetting Internet Explorer to its default configuration removes these malicious modifications and restores normal web access, making it the most direct first corrective action when web services remain inaccessible after infection cleanup.

Checking the hosts file is a valid step for diagnosing redirect issues, but resetting browser-level settings is a more immediate and direct first action when browser-based services are specifically affected.