Don’t count on antivirus programs to protect your computers files from spyware. Antivirus programs can detect some spyware but should not be counted on to find and remove all of it. If you want solid spyware protection, you need to download a good spyware remover.

When spyware is installed in your computer, it monitors your usage. Much of it also installs adware with windows and messages that pop up unbidden. Some of the most malicious spyware monitors your keystrokes, allowing the creator to obtain personal information and passwords. There are some excellent free spyware detector and remover programs available for download online. These programs offer detection as well as spyware remover tools.

Symptoms of Spyware Invasion

Spyware can cause ads to pop up at any time and at any frequency. Not only are the ads annoying, often the content is objectionable to children and most adults. Spyware can cause your computer to slow down drastically. Applications will be slow and/or browsing will become a long chore. You may see a toolbar on the top of your browser window that you did not install. These basically hijack your browser and take control. Spyware may reset your settings. If that is the case, you will not be able to change them back until you are rid of the problem. An increase in application crashes commonly occur as a result of spyware. If any of these signs are present in your computer, it is highly recommended that you scan your computer with both an antivirus and spyware remover programs. Spyware has been known to cause system-wide crashes. Avoid the worst by downloading a free spyware remover right now.

The Best Free MalwareScanners

Not every spyware removal program is compatible with every system. Following are the best free removers for Windows.

About Windows Defender for XP

This application comes with Windows Vista but is also available for free download for XP users. Brought to us by Microsoft, it is the best free spyware remover you will find for your needs. It updates its definitions and other important files automatically and runs manual scans as well as scheduled ones. Windows Defender is more than just spyware protection. You can use it to monitor programs on your computer and control which ones run at start up. If you have Windows XP and have not downloaded Windows Defender, you should visit Microsoft’s site and get it as soon as possible.

For all Windows Operating Systems 95 on up – SpyBot Search and Destroy

Since its creation several years ago, SpyBot has remained a free download. This software can be used by novices and pros alike. It is a wonderful anti-spyware program that stays current with all the latest definitions and removal abilities. You can immunize your computer against spyware and adware, remove offending software, set it to download updates on a schedule and shred unwanted files on your PC. There are more advanced features in SpyBot Search and Destroy as well. If you don’t recognize the terminology, don’t mess with these features as it can cause you more harm than good.

One annoying element involved with SpyBot Search and Destroy is that it sometimes freezes and can’t be closed without shutting down the computer. This does not seem to be a widespread issue though, and many claim they have never had an problem with it at all.

If your computer uses Windows, install one or both of these totally free spyware removal programs. Download Microsoft’s Windows Defender for XP and SpyBot for Windows 95 and above.