How to Get Rid of Spyware
Spyware is any piece of software that tracks activity on your computer and reports it back to a third party. The worst type of spyware is known as malware, which results in unwanted pop-up advertisements and other issues that lower the quality of your computing experience. If you have a Windows PC and want to get rid of the spyware from your computer, there are several free programs that can help you. One of the most effective is Lavasoft Ad-Aware, which will be the focus of this step-by-step guide.
Instructions
- Download the free version of Lavasoft’s Ad-Aware .
- Complete the installation process.
- Once installation is complete, use the Scan menu to access the Scheduler and set the intervals at which you would like the software to automatically check for new web updates.
- Using the same menu, select when you would like the software to automatically scan your computer for spyware. You can choose at what intervals you want the software to perform a Smart Scan or Full Scan.
- Click the Settings button and then select the Auto Scans tab.
- Find the System area, and choose what level of Automatic Cleaning you would like Ad-Aware to follow (Automatic Cleaning refers to the software automatically removing spyware that matches a specific level on the Threat Analysis Index).
- Click the Settings button and then select the Auto Scans tab.
- Find the Safety area and select the box labeled Quarantine Objects Prior to Removal (this will allow the software to automatically quarantine potentially dangerous spyware as soon as it is detected).
- Click Save to ensure that all of the setting changes you have made to the software are implemented.
Tips
- Although this step-by-step guide will ensure that your computer is protected against malicious spyware, you can also use the software’s manual to make additional changes and customizations to the Lavasoft Ad-Aware software.
