Dave {ð¿ð} wrote:
> With so many different anti-spyware programs to chose from it's difficult to
> know which are the best to install. Is there a comparison site that looks at
> what is available and compares their performance to each other? If not,
> what is the best to install on a PC running Windows XP?

Start here, Dave.

http://spywarewarrior.com/

You can end there, also. When people agree on what constitutes spyware
and adware, you might find some worthwhile comparison (not review, poll,
or any other similar nonsense). Until then (that would be when Hell
freezes over), such a thing is not possible.

Start with these.

http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_...tm#trustworthy

Many are or have a freeware offering which can be upgraded to a Pro
Version (automatic updates, real-time protection, scheduled scanning,
priority support, etc.). I currently have a license for SAS which offers
a 30-day free evaluation of SAS Pro.

I do not agree with Eric WRT Windows Defender being trustworthy. Windows
Defender will _not_ protect you from Microsoft, MSN or anyone else with
whom Microsoft has partnered.

http://preview.************/2ptclh

Letting MS protect you from adware is tantamount to letting
Google-Doubleclick protect you from adware. I myself would rather have
CoolWebSearch on my system. At least I know what CWS is up to, and I
know how to get rid of it. Of course, just my 0.02. YMMV.

If you want to test an anti-spyware app for typical responses to various
types of threats, you can play with these.

http://www.spycar.org

Note that these /tests/ are along the lines of Eicar. They mean nothing
WRT one anti-spyware app's efficacy against malware compared to another
app. The important thing is to stay away from these and all like them.

http://www.spywarewarrior.com/rogue_...ware.htm#sites

And stay away from _any_ security application where the Pro (paid)
Version offers better protection and/or detection than the
freeware/shareware version. That would be a scam.

Ron