Spyware, adware, browser hijackers, and dialers are some of the fastest-growing threats on the Internet today. By simply browsing to a web page, you could find your computer to be the brand-new host of one of these unwanted fiends! The most important step you can take is to secure your system. There are freely available program that will prevent the installation of ActiveX-based spyware, adware, browser hijackers, dialers, and other potentially unwanted pests. Other features include blocking spyware/tracking cookies in Internet Explorer and Mozilla/Firefox as well a restrict the actions of potentially dangerous sites in Internet Explorer. The below links are some of the popular, and best of all free, software and removal tools that helps you stop spyware/popups/virus from getting on your pc to begin with and removing them if they are already there.


Google Toolbar
Download Google Toolbar

Google has a great toolbar search engine and free popup blocker.

NOTE*: You can tell it to disable advanced features when it asks about sending anonymous data to google.


Ad-Aware
Download Ad-Aware



Spybot Search & Destroy
Download Spybot Search & Destroy

Spyware Removal

Spyware Blaster
Download Spyware Blaster

SpywareBlaster is a good protection program.

NOTE*: Same as the programs above make sure to update this program on a regular basis to help protect against spyware.


AVG Anti-Virus
Download AVG Anti-Virus

New - AVG Free Edition.

• AVG Resident Protection
• AVG e-mail Scanner
• AVG On-Demand Scanner
• Basic Scheduled Tests
• Free Virus Database Updates
• Automatic Update feature
• Easy-To-Use Interface
• Automatic Healing of infected files
• AVG Virus Vault for safe handling of infected files


McAfee AVERT Stinger
Download McAfee AVERT Stinger

Stinger is a stand-alone utility used to detect and remove specific viruses. It is not a substitute for full anti-virus protection, but rather a tool to assist administrators and users when dealing with an infected system. Stinger utilizes next generation scan engine technology, including process scanning, digitally signed DAT files, and scan performance optimizations.

Windows Winsock Repair Tool
Download Windows Winsock Repair Tool



Clamwin Anti-Virus
Download Clamwin Anti-Virus

A good virus scanner