Spyware, adware are real drags

By BILL HUSTED

Cox News Service

October 7, 2008

Q:  My computer running Windows XP Pro is slow as molasses in January. It takes Firefox over two minutes to open. Other programs are equally slow. I believe I have eliminated all viruses and worms. Do you know of a program that might help?

— Leslie Tenold

A: Sounds like you need a good program to find and eliminate adware and spyware.

These are tiny programs that require processor time and can really slow down a computer.

Most technicans agree they are the leading cause of computer slowdowns.

I use Spybot Search & Destroy, available at www.safer-networking.org/en/index.html. Use the Web address rather than a Google search.

In the past, readers have downloaded soundalike programs that ask for money. The real Spybot has a donations link but does not charge.

I also like Adaware's free version at www.lavasoft.com/products/ad_aware_free.php.

Please send your questions to Bill Husted at tecbud@bellsouth.net. While he reads every e-mail, not all are answered. E-mails are selected for publication based on the likelihood that the answers will be of general interest.