Labs

Ad-Aware is a staple utility for many in the battle against spyware. Frequently recommended by websites and computer magazines, including us, this free scanner is held in high regard. It is also included in the Google Pack, Google's free collection of essential software utilities.

The free version of Ad-Aware provides an on-demand scanner to detect and remove spyware and adware. If you want real-time protection, you will need to buy Ad-Aware SE Plus, which costs £20 including VAT. Navigating

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through the program's options is straightforward, and it automatically updates itself after installation if you are connected to the internet. Running a full system scan could not be easier.

Because Ad-Aware SE Personal doesn't include real-time protection, we were able to install all the spyware in our collection. We restarted the system and ran a full system scan. Ad-Aware discovered a long list of items related to only a couple of the spyware programs. It required a reboot to remove some of these, and a further system scan found some more spyware related to the rogue anti-spyware utility. One more scan detected the last of the files.

We then installed ewido anti-spyware. It found one further Registry entry and the rootkit. Despite lacking real-time protection, Ad-Aware is capable of rescuing a system infected with a collection of different spyware programs.

Ad-Aware is a great addition to a rescue CD. If you have problems with spyware, a copy of Ad-Aware will make life easier. However, don't rely solely on the free version to protect your PC.