What is Spyware?

Spyware is the most troublesome software to appear on the Internet in recent times. When spyware infects a computer system, it may be relatively harmless or it may be devastating.Spyware like coolwebsearch and new.net are capable of paralyzing a computer system. Laws to regulate spyware are pending in many states and may take years to enforce.What Is Spyware?Spyware is any software that collects information about computer usage and/or the computer user. It is installed on one computer and sends information to another computer. Some spywares like the Weather Bug, Bear Share and Kazaa are knowingly downloaded and installed by users. Other spyware is installed without the knowledge or permission of the user.How Does Spyware Affect A Computer?Symptoms of spyware infection includes:* Very slow system performance while browsing the Internet. * Your homepage changing mysteriously on its own. * Excessive appearance of pop-ups, on sites likes Google, Yahoo and MSN, which don't use them. * You can only get your browser to visit sites, which are trying to dupe you into buying spy ware removal software.Many spyware detection and elimination programs are easily available for free on the Internet.How Does One Deal With Spyware?There are many tools and catalogues available to deal with spyware. One of these tools is Spybot Search and Destroy. It scans computers for spyware and harmful programs. It shows a list of problem areas to the user and allows him to delete any or all of them.A user can leave legitimate programs installed by him. These may include peer-to-peer file sharing software or software installed to monitor the on-line activities of children.A Comprehensive SolutionIt may be a good idea for most computer owners to get a comprehensive PC security solution as a bundle. Norton and McAfee, now offer a complete security suite consisting of anti-virus, personal firewall, anti-spam and privacy offerings, and anti-spy ware.They are quite easy to install and allow parents to monitor children who use the computer. There are many threats on the Internet, from which these suites can protect your computer.