x-no-archive: yes

I just discovered this NG, and I only recently was introduced to spyware,
when my browser was hijacked by Xupiter.com. I was trying to download a
Java applet to enter a chatroom using my browser, and I got more than I
bargained for . . .

I have completely lost the ability to use MSN's search engine, by typing the
word "GO" followed by the browse subject, into my address bar. I don't know
how to de-install IE6 and then reinstall it (if that is even possible), so I
have learned to live with the situation.

Here is my question:

What anti-spyware or other software should I be running?

Right now I have McAfee Anti-Virus, updated every couple of days. I have
LavaSoft AdAware, and it has found and disinfected a number of spyware
items, I also run SpyBot daily. I also have Spyware Blaster, and I have
immunized every item on their list. Finally, I have Spyware Guard running
in the background.

I do a complete virus scan every couple of days, and I have it set to filter
internet downloads at other times (I don't keep it running in the
background, because it slows my system down to an unacceptable level.

I also have ZoneAlarm, latest freeware version, running at all times, and it
is set to its default settings. I have it set to go to Internet Lock after
15 minutes of inactivity.

I also use Anonymizer Private Surfing, and I always browse any unfamiliar
sites using it at maximum security, with encrypted URLs and SSH encryption
for downloaded pages.

Finally, I use PC Guardian encryption on a couple of sensitive directories.
I ordinarily leave the application turned off, except when I need to view or
work with an encrypted file.

I do keep seeing an Alexa URL ("Related.htm," I think), that keeps popping
up when I scan with SpyBot S&D. I clean it off, and a few days later it
reappears. I have no idea what it is that I am doing that enables this file
to keep coming back.

Have I covered all the bases? Is there anything else I should be doing?
Are there any web sites that offer information on this stuff? I'd
appreciate any information or suggestions.

Thanks.