Antivirus v. Antispyware
Louisville computer clients frequently ask me the difference between antivirus and antispyware software. It’s a good question.
Antivirus programs are designed to spot (and remove) viruses and other malicious programs that possess distinct signatures and behavior and typically seek to delete data or otherwise corrupt Windows systems. Sometimes viruses aim to turn a Windows system into a zombie, or a PC that can be remotely controlled by another for sending mass email messages or generating other unwanted traffic.
Antispyware programs, on the other hand, typically seek to identify and remove (or block) malicious software designed to monitor behavior, surreptitiously collect personal or credit card information or install programs designed to serve ads or hijack home pages and Web browser settings.
Many leading antivirus products (such as AVG Antivirus Professional 8.0 and Norton Antivirus 2009 with Antispyware) include both virus and spyware security tools within the same application. Unfortunately, a single antispyware program often isn’t sufficient to block ever-growing spyware threats. For that reason, most computer professionals recommend installing two antispyware programs.
My experience maintaining and troubleshooting numerous PCs reveals a few programs standa bove the rest. Louisville Geek office recommends the following antispyware programs:
* MalwareBytes AntiMalware
* Sunbelt Software Counterspy
* Spybot S&D
Have more questions? Contact Louisville Geek for help. You can reach us at 502-897-7577.
