Microsoft AntiSpyware is a
collection of security and privacy tools that bundles a host of features,
such as one that alerts you if someone tries to piggyback bandwidth off your
wireless network. Unfortunately though, Paul Bryan, Microsoft's director of
product management for its Security, Business and Technology unit, won't say
whether the Microsoft AntiSpyware program will remain free after beta
testing ends in July.
Microsoft AntiSpyware looks user friendly. It has an intuitive interface
that will appeal to Microsoft loyalists. The program is broken down into
three main tabs: Scanning, Real-Time Protection, and Advanced Tools, which
includes privacy and security features.
Microsoft the Exterminator
The primary Scanning function of
Microsoft AntiSpyware is fast and thorough. We found it able to identify the
same three spyware threats that veteran spyware detectors Spybot Search and
Destroy and Ad-Aware found on the system. We also found Microsoft
AntiSpyware's scanning engine as fast - if not faster - than Spybot Search
and Destroy. Ad-Aware, however, was the fastest of the three.
Once threats are identified, Microsoft AntiSpyware displays detailed
information about detected programs including where a threat is located on
your computer, a risk rating, and a recommended action. From the Scanning
tab you can also schedule scans daily, weekly, or monthly.
Real-Time Protection
Microsoft AntiSpyware goes well beyond scanning and removing spyware.
Another function helps protect key system processes, applications, and
Internet features often targeted by adware and spyware makers and hackers.
The program keeps watch over your dial-up and Wi-Fi connections, alerting
you if a third party tries to access your network.
Microsoft Antispyware gives real-time pop-up warnings that alert you when
attempts are made to change your PC's settings. It will also warn of
attempts to change Internet Explorer browser settings and a dialog box
allows you to accept the change or deny it.
Advanced Features
The Advanced Features tab offers three tools: Browser Hijack Restore, System
Explorer, and Tracks Erase. As the name suggests, Browser Hijack Restore
allows you to restore your browser settings to Microsoft defaults.
Unfortunately, this feature turns your browser into a Microsoft
advertisement, with links back to MSN.com, MSN Search, and the MSN Search
Toolbar.
The second advanced feature, System Explorer, allows advanced users to
modify settings like their browser helper objects, Winsock configurations,
and Windows host files. The third, Track Erase, lets you clear the histories
of a number of different programs
automatically. The feature lists the programs it identifies running on your
system.
Keep It Free
We liked Microsoft AntiSpyware. We hope
Microsoft will keep this collection of security and privacy tools free. The
best recommendation is that you continue to use competing products such as
Spybot Search and Destroy and Ad-Aware. It's always a good idea to scan your
system with another product (but not at the same time), just to make sure
every single spyware and adware application is zapped.
Where To Get Microsoft AntiSpyware Windows Defender (Beta 2)
Do a search on Google.com for "microsoft antispyware" or click here for more information. There's plenty available.
กก
More articles:
How to get Free Long Distance
Spyware Remover
Copyright © 2006 1st-netcard.com. All Rights Reserved.