Computer Viruses & Spyware , Free Removal Programs

A computer virus is a computer program that can copy itself and infect a computer without the permission or knowledge of the user. Also refered to as a 'virus'. These viruses can steal information, ruin your computer and send itself to your friends. In order to replicate itself, a virus must be allowed to execute, many viruses attach themselves to executable files that may be part of legitimate programs. If a user tries to start an infected program, the virus' code may be executed.

Spyware is computer software that is installed on a personal computer to intercept or take control over the computer, without the user's consent. The functions of spyware include monitoring, collecting various types of personal information, surfing habits and visited sites. Spyware can even change computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds, a different home page and possible loss of Internet.

Quick Tips:
-Watch Out! Do not open or download anything unless you know its source.
-Never use two anti-virus products at the same time.
-Do weekly spyware scans.
-Keep Your Anti-virus/Anti-Spyware up to date.

Need some more tips or help with your computer? Check out Geekdout.net for all the answers.

Avast Antivirus is completely free for home use, you are only required to register the product, by using an email address. They do not send any emails other than your activation email.

Available strictly for home use (no organisational use allowed), Avast is a no-nonsense free antivirus and offers quick and easy protection, it also offers many other features normally only available in paid antivirus programs.

What stands out the most for Avast is it simple interface, this antivirus program is great for beginners and with automatic updates, you can install avast and never have to touch it again.
Download Avast for FREE

AVG is one of the most popular free anti-virus programs on the web today. AVG's free edition this comes with all the important components, including virus scanning, updates and an automatic protection system.

Another very handy feature of AVG is it's famous 'Virus Vault', where you can handle infected files in a safe environment.

If you want technical support, you can always purchase the paid version for US$34.99, which includes a tonne of extra stuff and 24hr support. However the free version is more then enough to protect your computer on the day to day.
Download AVG for FREE

Ad-Aware
With the ability to scan your RAM, Registry, hard drives, and external storage devices for known data-mining, advertising, and tracking components, Ad-Aware 2008 can clean your system easily, allowing you to maintain a higher degree of privacy while you surf the Web.

Ad-Aware 2008 includes an improved threat detection, enhanced rootkit removal system, faster updates, Lavasoft ThreatWork to submit suspicious files for analysis, and is now compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit Windows Vista. Version 7.1.0.11 may include unspecified updates, enhancements, or bug fixes.
Download Ad-Aware for FREE

Spybot can detect and remove a large amount of spyware related files from your computer. Modules chosen for removal can be sent directly to the included file shredder, ensuring complete elimination from your system. The online-update feature ensures that Spybot always has the most current and complete listings of spyware and other uninvited system pests.
Download SpyBot for FREE