My sister asked me if I knew of any *free* spyware programs out there that would detect the garbage that accumulates on our computers AND eradicates them--for free.

I know that there are a lot of programs out there that'll detect the garbage for "free," but will then ask you to buy the program to get rid of the parasites.

So ... are there any decent freebies out there, or will I have to tell her to buck up and pay the $$?

Thanks!

~Sue
adwoff.com

I use Spybot Search and Destroy (100% free), also Ad Aware has a free version as well.

Spybot and Adaware are the best ones. Microsoft has a beta version of MS Antispyware for "Genuine" Windows users.

Thanks, guys! You da bestest!

~Sue <<-- getting answers to questions like these are why I continue w/UBB!

SpyBot Search and Destroy and Microsoft Windows Defender are definitely the best out there, even topping all the paid ones. But the key is to not get the spyware on your computer in the first place because its getting more and more difficult to remove without resorting to a full format and reinstall.

The best way to prevent the spyware infestation is to use the Firefox or Opera web browsers instead of Internet Explorer and only download software from very trusted sources. You could also use SpywareGuard, SpywareBlaster, and SpyBot's Immunize feature to help prevent things from getting in.

Just make sure you use the update feature on these programs several times of week or they won't be able to stop the the new stuff.

I run the WyldRyde IRC Network and we host chats for dozens anti-spyware and anti-malware help sites. If you still need help with spyware removal drop in our web chat.

I use Spybot at work and Adaware at home. Both are very good, but I like Adaware's interface a little better. Just personal preference.

Basil

How about your choices for a free Windows antivirus? I switched over to Avast after AVG kind of dropped the ball this year.

Afraid I don't have an opinion on free AV software. I use Norton on one computer and McAfee on another, only because they came installed already.

Basil

I use Avast also. I think it does a good enough job.

It is not free but Nod32 is the best anti-virus. It uses very little resources and they're very quick to provide updates for the newest stuff in the wild. Almost always beating all the other vendors.

I still use Norton/Symantec myself, have had a long history with them