Search Download.com

Search
Advanced search

CNET > Downloads > Windows > Spyware Center > What to know before you download





Adware-Removal Tools
Remove spyware and adware with the latest spyware fighters.
Pop-Up Blockers
Prevent pop-up advertisements with the latest in pop-up blockers.
How to Use HijackThis
Find out what spyware has attached itself to your web browser.
Adware Glossary
Get the terms straight with our guide to the nomenclature of spyware.
ZoneAlarm Tips
Prevent spyware from sending out your personal information.



What is spyware?

Spyware programs make money for their publishers by reporting your Internet travels and sending you advertisements. Some also report your name, e-mail address, and other personal information.

Are adware and spyware different?

Different people have different definitions for each. CNET calls any program designed to deliver ads or to get marketing information adware. Spyware is a subset of adware, focused on reporting personal information.

How do adware-removal tools work?

Most adware-removal tools act like antivirus tools. They maintain a library of spyware filenames and registry keys, searching for and removing them from your computer.

How did I get it?

Many ostensibly free programs come with spyware or adware. The program installer doesn't always describe every program being installed.

Read more in our spyware FAQ.



advertisement


Download

What it does: Ad-aware scans computers for known spyware and tracking cookies, then deletes what it finds.


What it doesn't do:
Ad-aware can only find spyware identified in its definition file, and may not find newer spyware.


Cost: Free
CNET Rating:
read review >>

Download

What it does:
Along with spyware-removal tools, Spybot includes a file shredder and start-up manager.


What it doesn't do:
This program relies on a definition file and so doesn't block or find the latest spyware.


Cost: Free
CNET Rating:
read review >>

Download

What it does:
This start-up manager alerts you when new programs are set to run, giving you the chance to stop them.

What it doesn't do:
WinPatrol doesn't remove spyware, merely letting you choose which programs run automatically.

Cost: Free
CNET Rating:
read review >>

Download

What it does:
ZoneAlarm controls which applications on your computer can send information via the Internet.

What it doesn't do:
This firewall doesn't remove spyware, although it does let you know which programs want to send out data.

Cost: Free
CNET Rating:
read review >>


 |  Help Center  |  Hall of Fame