Has you computer slowed down? Is your web browser getting redirected to strange websites? There is a chance that your PC is attacked by spyware.
What is Spyware?
Spyware can be defined as a computer software which is surreptitiously installed on a personal computer to ‘spy’ or take fractional control over the user’s activity, without his consent of course. A spyware can also take over the user’s activities and install additional software, re-direct the browser activity and similar actions, that can make a computer prone to further attacks and virus infections.
What features should anti-spyware software offer?
Most of the anti-spyware programs provide spyware and adware detection and removal, but you should look at the detailed list of features and add-ons that the program offers. Check whether the application informs you about the spyware found on your computer in detail and also suggests ways to nip the attack in the bud. Check whether there is an auto-updating or auto-scheduling facility, which will ensure you keep on upgrading your anti-spyware program for the latest spyware threats on the Internet. Also, it is advisable to look for an ‘undo’ option, which can be a great boon if in case you delete any useful files by mistake.
How effective is my anti-spyware software?
Mere temporary removal of spyware is not adequate, find an anti-spyware program that will not just provide real-time protection from spyware but also prevent its installation in the future. Check if there are a few types of spyware that it does not recognize. Your program should be able to target maximum possible types of spyware and adware with regular updates.
What should I look for before installing my anti-spyware?
First of all the software should be easy to install, by simply referring to the installation guide. The basics and features of the software should be clear and should be easily comprehensible. Look for simple and direct features, which spare you the technical jargon and take care of the spyware infections effectively. Also, you don’t want an anti-spyware application that takes too much of your time for scanning, removal, and new update installation. Look for one that is quick, smart, and effective!
Top Five Best Free Anti-spyware Software
Ad-Aware
Ad-Aware free version is one of the top-notch applications when it comes to spyware and adware removal. This is the anti-spyware program for you in case you don’t want to spend money on effective spyware removal. Obviously the Professional version offers an array of special features that are not available in the free version. Also, another difference is that the free version only performs manual scans as and when the user chooses, but the Professional version proactively shields the computer from spyware attacks.
Spybot S & D
Spybot S & D is another excellent anti-spyware software that is as effective as Ad-Aware. Although the application ensures effective and stable protection against spyware, the fact that it is a free software implies that there will be no support provided in case of problems or doubts.
Windows Defender
Windows Defender that was earlier known as Microsoft AntiSpyware, is an anti-spyware software product from Microsoft, which is specifically designed to prevent, remove, and quarantine spyware in the Microsoft Windows operating system. Currently, it is also available as a free download for Windows.
McAfee
McAfee, a name that is more popular for their antivirus products, is undoubtedly a major player in the world of computer and network security. McAfee anti-spyware is quite effective with spyware types like key loggers, remote-control programs, and even browser hijacks. It is effective for password security as well. Again, what lacks in this software is the mediocre performance of the real-time monitoring of spyware attacks.
Spyware Guard
This is an application by Javacool software, which is available for free. It is sufficiently effective in real-time scanning and blockage of spyware browser-hijacks. An important feature is that it prevents download and installation of malware, while surfing the Internet via the Internet Explorer. It provides auto-updates and log and report facilities. However, in addition to the other minor disadvantages of free software, this program also unnecessarily consumes a disproportionate amount of system resources on the computer.