Best spyware protection program

[preslove]

So, I'm giving my old windows laptop to my mom & reformatted it 3 + years my initial set up. I'm out of the windows loop because all my systems since this laptop have been linux or osx. I've installed AVG for antivirus, but would like to install something that prevents malware and spyware from being installed. My mom is a total noob and asking her to update and scan for spyware is not really an option.

Also, what happened to that comprehensive security thread that was in the old software forum?

Thanks!

 

[law9933]

There are many opinions, I use free ones & manually update but they might have a auto setting.

Blockers
Spyware Blaster
Spyware Guard
Windows Defender
IE-SPYAD

Also should have at least one good scanner

 

[mechBgon]

Setting her up with a Limited user account is also a great idea. Cost: zero. Protection: quite good. Possible gotchas: some software doesn't like being run from a Limited account without additional measures.

 

[Medea]

Originally posted by: preslove
but would like to install something that prevents malware and spyware from being installed.

Wish there was something like that but, unfortunately, there's no app that will completely prevent malware/spyware from being installed.

Follow mech's suggestion about setting the primary user's account as a limited user's account. This will go a long way in stopping a lot of malware from getting a foothold.

Since it's your mother, I'm assuming that she's not into p2p programs. Downloaded files via p2p's are probably one of the biggest sources of infections.

The Hosts file blocks access to hundreds of known malware sites. Since that's always changing, you'll have to periodically update it.

If you're looking for a free app that will alert you about an attempt, other than your AV, then Windows Defender is probably the best one.

 

[law9933]

If she surf's the internet (not just emailing) McAfee SiteAdvisor might be helpful.
I have seen AVG Suite (buy) suggested for business PCs. Use a firewall as always.

 

[Schadenfroh]

Really great deals on security products lately, checkout the Security Product Deals Thread for free after rebate security products. You might also be interested in the antivirus detection rate thread.

Also, what happened to that comprehensive security thread that was in the old software forum?

Died due to lack of time, vista, and the already solid pages built by John and mechBgon.

 

[lusher]

Originally posted by: Schadenfroh
Really great deals on security products lately, checkout the Security Product Deals Thread for free after rebate security products. You might also be interested in the antivirus detection rate thread.

Also, what happened to that comprehensive security thread that was in the old software forum?

Died due to lack of time, vista, and the already solid pages built by John and mechBgon.

There's also

http://wiki.castlecops.com/Lis...ware_Security_Software

 

[lusher]

Originally posted by: preslove
So, I'm giving my old windows laptop to my mom & reformatted it 3 + years my initial set up. I'm out of the windows loop because all my systems since this laptop have been linux or osx. I've installed AVG for antivirus, but would like to install something that prevents malware and spyware from being installed. My mom is a total noob and asking her to update and scan for spyware is not really an option.

Also, what happened to that comprehensive security thread that was in the old software forum?

Thanks!