Antispyware is a type of computer software that is generally designed to detect and remove malicious or threatening programs from a computer. These programs are often referred to as spyware, indicating their propensity to collect and send a person’s personal information to third parties without their consent. Anti-spyware is available in many formats and at many different price points.
Anti-spyware helps protect your computer from malicious programs.
Spyware is a type of malicious program, also called malware, that sends information from a computer to a third party without the user’s knowledge or consent. The type of data retrieved by these programs varies, but many collect information about a user’s Internet browsing habits, online purchases, and even keystrokes such as passwords. Also, these programs can change the settings and functionality of your computer. Anti-spyware seeks to block or remove these programs.
Windows users are encouraged to regularly scan their computers and laptops for spyware.
There are two main ways antispyware works. The first is real-time spyware capture. This system verifies computer transactions coming from the Internet. When it detects potential spyware, it attempts to block it before the malware has a chance to settle in the root directory or elsewhere on the computer. This real-time detection usually occurs at download time.
The second type of antispyware uses an updateable list of known spyware to protect a computer. Many users frequently download new versions of this registry to keep their protection software up to date. Instead of blocking the download of potentially dangerous programs, this type of software detects and removes those that have already been loaded onto your computer.
Antispyware of this type typically scans your operating system’s registry, programs, and files. It then compares these files against its list of known malware. If a file matches one on the list, antispyware will usually isolate and remove it.
Anti-spyware is available from many software companies. These programs can provide real-time malware detection, either through an updatable list or by using a combination of the two systems. Many of these programs are standalone, while others come with an antivirus program. Several are offered for free download if the program is installed on a personal computer and is not used for commercial purposes.
Consumers in the antispyware market should be aware that many programs that advertise themselves as protection software are actually spyware. As a result, people should be careful when downloading software from the Internet. Various tech sites provide credible download reviews for concerned consumers.
