Microsoft’s Spyware in Its Infancy

Microsoft finally came out with a spyware application but it is in its infancy. Microsoft’s Antispyware scanning software is being released to the public as a beta for the public to use. So far the scanning abilities are quite limited. See the comparison scan I performed with their new tool compared to Ad-Aware’s Personal edition.

Here is the scan from Ad-Aware on the same system:

As you can see, Microsoft’s scanner is still in its infancy but by putting this product out, they are taking a leap in the right direction by offering a solution to combat a growing problem

The Tool:

Here are some possible future advantages (or disadvantages) that Microsoft’s tool may have over the competition is quickly noticeable.

1. Auto update feature. Yes I know that others have this feature but it is still worth mentioning.
2. Real-time protection: This means it will be scanning your system for constant protection. We will have to wait and see how nice this plays with some of the antivirus software applications out there that do the same.
3. Browser Hijack Restore: Who here has had there Internet Explorer hijacked in one way or another? Hijackers are ugly to look at and even uglier to try and get rid of completely. Here we have a tool centralized to do this for us.
4. Tracks Eraser: Removes Internet logs as well as active history from your system. This means cookies can do less to target you and your system. It also effects applications that contain histories and searches as well.
5. System Explorers: Get under the hood without really having to get your fingers dirty. This GUI keeps it simple for any user that wants to poke around their system to see what is going on behind the scenes.
6. Suspected Spyware Report: How else can we help the community than by reporting spyware ourselves? Here is an easy to use submission box that will help the community of spyware scanners smarter.

The Conclusion:

Microsoft is dedicating itself to produce a quality solution that doesn’t necessarily incorporate just there products. They stress updates, a personal firewall, and of course antivirus software. They also have put together an initiative on battling spyware. You can check this out by following this link HERE.

Microsoft looks like it is putting a huge effort into helping end users like you and me to protect against and if this tool becomes reality, it could help generate a large awareness of spyware in the community of Internet users.

My thoughts are, give it a try. See how you like it, but don’t put stock that it will find what you want. If you have a problem, stick with the bigger names like Spybot and Ad-Aware for now until Microsoft builds up its search database. This new application will help you understand a little more about what is going on behind the scenes on your computer and how to effectively fix problems and block potential problems.