Computer Spot

Even though the old definition of a spyware is as a software that monitors user’s behavior secretly, today, spyware functions more than just simple monitoring.

Spyware programs are used to collect personal information including user’s surfing habit, visited sites, redirect browser activity, access websites containing harmful viruses and etc.

Most of the time, spyware is the main culprit in slow connection speeds by changing computer settings. Such spywares are dealed by programs called the anti-spyware software.

Today, there are a lot of programs available in the market for users to protect their computers. Softwares like Ad-Aware SE, Spybot – Search & Destroy, Zone Alarm with Anti Spyware, Windows AntiSpyware, Windows Defender and etc.

Some major anti-virus companies like McAfee and Symantec have also added the anti-spyware features into their product.

Anti spyware softwares protect computers by providing real time protection, preventing the installation of spyware on your computer.

Besides that, some programs are use to detect and remove these spyware programs found in your infected computer.

These anti-spyware programs start by inspecting Windows registry, operating system files, programs and proceed to remove files which match its list of spyware programs.

Regular updates are required to keep the list new in order to track down newer spywares. Without regular updates, these programs will not be able to detect and spot newer spywares and could offer no solution or guidance to remove them from your computer.

Sometimes, if your anti-spyware program failed to detect the spyware and they are installed successfully, try to reboot your computer into safe mood in order to run a better scan and at the same time giving the anti-spyware program a better chance to remove the spyware.

Another popular anti-spyware tool which is used by the more tech savvy users is Hijack This. This tool will scan areas of Windows OS and preset a list so that the user could delete them manually.

However, for those with less knowledge it this field, it is better to post the Hijack This log on antispyware sites to let the experts tell you what to do.