SpyBot Search & Destroyfor Windows

It's hard not to fall into the deep abyss of the internet. You stumble upon interesting articles and videos. That YouTube cat video is just addictive. You download links you think you need. And before you know it, something is off. At one point in your internet odyssey, some internet threat crept in and began posting pesky ads and pop-ups. Is it malware? With Spybot Search & Destroy, you can find that out and more, and make sure that your comp is safe from threats and online tracking. Now, the question: Is that the best option in the market?

A layer of protection

No need to worry about other websites tracking your online activity for advertising; Spybot has you covered.

Spybot Search & Destroy literally does what its name implies. It scans your computer for spyware, adware, or any other malicious threat, and deletes them to keep your machine out of harm's way. Spybot Search & Destroy is one of the more popular names when it comes to malware protection. It can also rid you of suspicious software without affecting other programs installed on your PC. While it may sound a bit complicated, this anti-malware software makes the task as easy as a few clicks.

With the protection download, you can also delete your usage tracking to make sure you're not under anyone's surveillance. 1, 2, 3. And the program deletes your browser history, programs, cookies, and opened files. It also offers quarantine and immunization options for additional security.

When setting up the software, Spybot Search & Destroy will ask you if you want to have full control of its functions or if you want everything automated. If you're not well-versed on the technicalities, the latter option is perfect for you. It then chooses what version to install on your computer depending on preference. Changed your mind? You can still switch between versions even after it's fully set up on your desktop.

Once the software has been installed, you may select the option to update the program's malware signatures. After this is done, you can either scan your entire machine or select files that you desire. Keep in mind that this process may take a little bit more time. Spybot will flag any threat it identifies on your system and set it up for deletion.

Getting Spybot can be done via three different plans: Home, Corporate, and Technician. All of these packages offer anti-malware, ant-spyware, and anti-virus. The last of the three is exclusive to the paid plans. 

Where can you run this program?

Spybot Search & Destroy is available on machines running on the Windows operating system. However, any computer with an OS older than Windows Vista can only be supported by the software's older versions 2.4 and 1.6.2. If you're using Windows 7 or higher, you may download its latest version by going to their website. Unfortunately, Mac and Linux machines aren't supported by this program.

This anti-malware requires you to have Pentium 4 2.4 GHz or higher processor or any AMD64 or Intel64 processor. Make sure to have at least 1 GB RAM. If you're getting the Free Edition, you must have 200 MB or more of hard drive space while the Licensed Edition will require you to have at least 750 MB.

Is there a better alternative?

Malwarebytes has powerful features that can ensure your computer's security. It's easy to use and works with other antivirus tools for optimal protection. You wouldn't have much trouble navigating through the program because of its simple and intuitive interface. For a low yearly subscription price, you can rest easy knowing your computer is safe from threats. If you are hesitant about spending money on such a service, sign up for their free plan where you can get on-demand malware, spyware, and rootkit detection.

Bitdefender offers an accurate and reliable antivirus service. You can get it for a one-device annual plan or 10-device subscription. It supports multiple scan modes: Quick Scan, System Scan, Explorer integration, and a bootable rescue environment meant for stubborn threats. It has an easy-to-use interface and works fast compared to other antivirus programs products.

Our take

While Spybot Search & Destroy remains one of the biggest names in the anti-malware business, it is a bit behind in the competition. It's slower compared to other programs of its kind. Due to its lack of updates and limited information on new malware, you can't rely on it 100%.

Should you download it?

No. There are plenty of other software programs that offer malware protection more effectively than Spybot Search & Destroy. You may get the free updated version for added protection, but make sure to have other security measures running on your computer. If you're the type who's likely to stumble upon questionable web content, get yourself a better anti-malware program.