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Protect Your Computer Against

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Everyone has heard of the need for antivirus and anti-spyware programs, but some people still don't realize what spyware is, or why it's so dangerous. Spyware is not the same as a computer virus. Viruses corrupt files and destroy data. Spyware generally keeps track of where you go online, and sends this information to advertising agencies who then use the data for various purposes. It can also change your home page, slow down computer performance, and the more dangerous types log your keystrokes for possible password and credit card number gathering schemes.

Perhaps the most insidious thing about spyware is that it is often installed without our knowledge – free programs online can sometimes be the culprit, but spyware is also sometimes downloaded and installed simply by visiting certain websites that exploit security problems in various browsers.

Preventing the spread of spyware is an important aspect of computer security. Spyware and other unwanted software can invade your privacy, liter your machines with pop-up windows and even make your computer crash. Just as we should keep passwords safe, we should also take steps to ensure that our passwords aren't compromised in the first place. There are several anti-spyware programs on the market, both paid and free. One of the best places to search for reputable software is a site like download.com.

However, even the best anti-spyware program won't do much if it's not kept up-to-date and run regularly. As part of computer security, spyware should be updated once every 24 hours, and your computer should be scanned once a day, with a full scan once a week just to be on the safe side. Also stay away from questionable websites that try to get you to download and install software that you are unsure about.

With a little effort, it's possible to keep your confidential data safe and your computer spyware free.

Protect Your Computer Against

Bundling software applications together is a practice much abused by purveyors of adware. The potential for sneaking unwanted software into a bundle of desirable software is obvious. The benefits of bundling software aren't so obvious. Isn't it time to consider dumping the practice of bundling software altogether?

Bundled Software: When Is It Not Adware?

If a user wants a piece of software, why can't he or she be allowed to install it separately? If the bundled software were essential to the functioning of the original software (excluding generic functions such as install, un-uninstall, and documentation), why wouldn't the developer build its functions directly into the original software?

Sure, sometimes there's a software application that clearly complements another application. But for users who do not want the complementary software, having it just means a bloated install file and a needlessly long installation process.

Does the chance that users will want the bundled software ever outweigh the risk of the bundled software being installed without the user noticing? In the case of adware, the technology community is increasingly willing to put the burden of proof on the adware bundlers:

* Cnet's download.com website recently removed any and all software that comes bundled with another piece of software that shows advertising, regardless of how well informed the user is of the bundled software.

* Affiliate networks such as Commission Junction and Kolimbo have either cautioned advertisers against accepting adware distributors into their affiliate programs or kicked them out altogether.

* Many technology law experts are saying that the click-wrap license agreements that supposedly legitimate adware are not proof of informed consent. Some experts even say that such agreements amount to unconscionable contracts: the burden imposed by adware is so great and the benefit offered so negligible.

Adware and Bundled Software: A Modest Proposal

If the spam arms race is any indication, we may soon face even more aggressive attempts to get adware on our computers. There will be even more tortured arguments that bundled adware is installed with users' informed consent. Why not head off any of those arguments right now? Let's push for an industry standard that reputable developers do not bundle software (with a few highly specific exceptions such as documentation, installation, and error reporting).

In the end, by getting rid of bundled software, what do we have to lose except adware?

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About Author

Both Matt Peterson & Kulwinder Kaur are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.

Matt Peterson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Personal Desktop, Computers and The Internet and Nutrition. N2 Network Solutions, a leader in , providing IT Consulting and. Matt Peterson's top article generates over 18100 views. to your Favourites.

Kulwinder Kaur has sinced written about articles on various topics from Recipes, Online College and Computers and The Internet. Did you find this article useful? For more useful tips & hints, Points to ponder and keep in mind, techniques & insights pertaining to Web Designing, Do please browse for more information at our website :-. Kulwinder Kaur's top article generates over 2400 views. to your Favourites.

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