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Anti-spyware is the less harmless brother of a virus of a worm. Most specialists and experts will probably contradict me at this point saying that there is no comparison between them and so on – frankly, for the common user the effects are not measured the same way an expert measures them. A typical user will notice that his system is slowing down gently but surely and will rarely stop to analyse why – all he wants to know is the cure to his problem, and as soon as possible. Within this article we shall discuss about what to look for in your anti-spyware software and how to configure it for maximum protection.
Detection Methods – Even if you are not a guru in computer science, whenever you are in the lookout for an anti-spyware application, make sure you check some sources in regards to the detection methods used by that particular anti-spyware software. The basic problem is that most of the times, cheap anti-spyware apps use lame detection methods that only scrape the surface without going in after the potential threat.
Quarantine and Recovery System are a must – It is essential to use the quarantine and recovery system with any infected file since this might ensure whether you shall keep your files or whether the shall go to trash (frankly, I would advise against the latter, but nonetheless, in some situations it becomes imperative to do so). Remember, maximum protection is easily achieved through a well-built program that allows you to disinfect rather than through complete erases.
Scan your computer for Spyware, adware, dialers and web bugs – If you want maximum protection then you should not only search for one subspecies – you should find and configure an app that is designed to eliminate most threats with individual tasks. Meaning, do not pile adware on top of spyware within an app because it will surely not give the results you need.
Use Anti-Spyware programs in conjunction with Web Browsers – Most spyware and adware is caught through internet use, meaning that sometimes you simply end up with one through your web browser. For more protection, configure your anti-spyware software to protect your web browser too – this way you ensure that all the doors are locked against spyware.
Schedule Tasks – Just like with any Anti-Virus software it would be ideal to configure scheduled tasks. You see, it is easy to forget about a full system scan against spyware, however, the app has nothing better to do than scan your system. This will ensure more protection, and if you want to avoid scans at bad times, simply schedule the scans at an hour when you surely not use your computer.
May 15th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
I used to use AVG and as the resident geek amongst friends and family am often asked which vendor to plump for. My answer tends to vary and I try out new options regularly..for free I usually go with Avast or AVG, paid-for, i’ve been down the NOD32 route, as well as more popular mainstream options…the search continues…..
May 15th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
I think the AVG is a very good one if you want it for free and can typically be downloaded from http://www.download.com