Thread: Spybot - search and destroy

Spybot is a popular and well known application that scans for and eliminates spyware and adware. It comes with a decent interface and the results are displayed in a tree type structure. The sliding panel allows the user to take quick decisions for example, quarantine, heal or delete the infected object. The Immunization feature blocks various Web-borne threats before it can reach your computer. Make sure the 'Enable Internet Explorer protection' and 'Use system settings protection' checkbox is selected while installing the application.

Spybot Search and Destroy is a free application. Once downloaded, double-click the setup file and click follow the steps as mentioned. Click the 'I accept the agreement' radio button and click 'Next'. Click 'Browse' on the next screen and select an appropriate location to install the application. Click 'Next' to proceed. Make sure the 'Use Internet Explorer protection' and 'Use system settings protection' checkbox is selected. Once done, click 'Next' and then 'Install'. Once the installation has been completed, you are now ready to use the application for protection against spyware and adware.

Let's take a look at how to go about it. Once the program starts, you will be prompted to create a registry backup. Click the 'Create registry' backup button. Once done, click 'Next'. It is of vital importance to keep the application updated to ensure complete protection. Click the 'Search for updates' button. If there are updates available, Spybot Search and Destroy will notify you of the same and keep you updated. Once done, you will be prompted to immunize your system. Click the 'Immunize this system' button. Once done, click 'Next' and then click the 'Start using the program' button. To scan your system, click the 'Search and Destroy' button on the top right corner of the screen and then, click 'Check for problems'.

The scanning process will now commence. If threats have been detected, simply select the checkbox next to the threat and click the 'Fix selected problems' button.