According to the invention, a method for the prevention of microbial growth in process waters is provided, wherein first a peracid compound, and thereafter a halogenated dialkyl hydantoin are dosed into said process water. Further, according to the invention, a combination for the prevention of microbial growth is provided, said combination comprising compounds to be dosed separately, said compounds being a peracid compound to be dosed first, and a halogenated dialkyl hydantoin to be dosed after the peracid compound, the weight ratio of the peracid compound to the halogenated dialkyl hydantoin being at least 2:1, wherein the amount of the peracid compound is calculated as active agent, while the amount of halogenated dialkyl hydantoin is calculated as active chlorine.