Secure Computing: Help Identify and Eliminate Malicious Software with AD-Aware

Malicious softwares are also known as Malware. These softwares are installed on your computer without your knowledge that works as a Spyware, Adware, and Grayware. These softwares are very annoying and you can’t really enjoy your computer work in the presence of these softwares.

These softwares are as harmful as they sound. Spyware can get personal information without your knowledge. Adware can display pop up advertisements on your computer screen. Grayware software are installed on your computer without your knowledge that falls into “Gray area”, it is not as serious as a virus is but very annoying. And Malware is the collection of these.

Lavasoft’s Ad-Aware is freeware for home users. When you install it, a screen would appear and ask you to enter license key, or just click on “Use free” button. Like every other antivirus utility, it will also check for latest updates for definitions. After installation, two shortcuts would appear on the desktop, one of which is Ad-Watch, which is a real-time adware protection utility. It is not free with free version, you can get it with plus or pro edition, it is like advertisement.

You scan with two different modes, Smart Scan and Full Scan. Smart Scan will scan the most critical parts of the system, Full Scan will concentrate on Full System scan and would take more time. During the scan, you would be presented with progress and virus, if found any.

After scanning you can manually remove the suspected file, can also set restore point.

TrackSweep is the tool through which you can remove tracks you left behind internet surfing, compatible with all major browsers. Other settings that can be change are scanning, AutoScans, User Interface and log files, every setting is not available for change unless you upgrade.