There are many programs out there to deal with spyware and viruses but many come with a hefty price tag and the added annoyance of renewing a subscription every couple of months. Programs that deal with malicious entities on your computer can serve one or many purposes.
Detection programs will search your computer for malicious content but will only be able to remove a limited range of infections if any. They may remove visible signs of a virus but do not get to the root of the problem. Many online scans and trial programs are strictly detection.
Removal programs scan your computer and remove any instances of spyware or viruses and in some cases immunize the computer from further similar attacks. If a virus is stubborn and keeps returning after being removed several times your software may not be able to remove this specific attack. If this is the case some viruses have removal tools (small program) written solely for the purpose of removing that one virus. Do a google search of the name of the virus that keeps popping up in your scanner to find additional information on that particular attack.
Removal and detection programs are best implemented in conjunction with a Protection program. This will block malicious content before it reaches your computer. It is imperative with protection programs as well as detection/removal programs that they are kept up to date. All three types of programs rely on virus/spyware definitions to track and remove the latest attacks. Be sure to update your program as well as run full scans of your computer on a regular basis.
Here are my choices for cheap alternatives to expensive subscription protection plans. The first is a spyware detection/removal program from Safer-Networking call Spybot! Search & Destroy, available for download here. Next is a program with a free trial version that includes free updates, detection and removal called Anti-Malware from the people at Malwarebytes, available for download and purchase here. Upgrading to the full version allows for real time protection. (well worth it!) Last but not least is the popular AVG anti-virus. AVG free version comes with real time protection along with scanning and updates and is available here. Full version includes firewall, instant messaging protection and a whole slew of goodies.
Remember to always keep your software up to date and be careful out there!
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