Detect and protect computer systems against annoying pop-up advertisements, slow surfing, sluggish computers and hijacked webpages with 4 free anti-spyware downloads.
Today, many computer users are familiar with malicious computer viruses, worms and Trojans, which are nasty and malicious software capable of damaging and corrupting computer systems. Users also need to be aware of other potential computer programs that can cause a wide array of computer issues; spyware. Spyware are programs that are installed on computer systems generally without the user's knowledge or consent.
Spyware can affect computers in various ways. Some spyware monitors and tracks online surfing habits while other spyware collects personal information. Some spyware automatically redirects users to other websites while other spyware changes computer settings or installs software without the user's knowledge.
There are numerous signs and symptoms of computer spyware infestation:
Slow and sluggish computer systems
Frequent computer stalls or system crashes
Home-page hijacking
Hijacked web browser
Additional browser toolbars or desktop icons
Various keyboard keys no longer work properly
Frequent and annoying pop-up advertisements
Connection issues
Spyware is installed on systems in a variety of ways. A common approach is to bundle spyware with programs. Users download and install the desired program, as spyware is also being installed without the user's knowledge or consent. Security holes also pose a risk not only to computer viruses, but spyware installation.
Unfortunately, once spyware is installed, it may be difficult to revert back to the original computer settings.
The following programs provide computer spyware protection at no-cost. Some programs detect spyware, some remove spyware while others detect and remove.
User manual available in download form (PDF format)
Supports Windows 2000, XP, XP Pro and Vista
Ad-Aware 2007 Free
Free version available for home use only
Detects and removes spyware
Includes user-friendly interface
Includes free updates
Free support is also available
Supports Windows XP, Server 2003, Windows 200 and Vista operating systems
Requires Internet Explorer 5.5+, Opera 9+ and Firefox 1.5 browsers
Windows Defender
Defender detects and removes spyware
Available in several languages
Provides protection for all users, not just administrators
Provides scheduled scanning
Provides automatic updates
Requires XP SP2 or Server 2003 SP+
(Is also included with Windows Vista operating systems)
Requires Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher
Protect computers and detect spyware with the four free downloads listed above. Ensure a safer and faster web surfing experience and a reliable and faster computer by installing a anti-spyware program today.
The copyright of the article 4 Free Spyware Downloads in Internet Security is owned by Jace Shoemaker-Galloway. Permission to republish 4 Free Spyware Downloads must be granted by the author in writing.