We've told you about a spyware-free alternative to download-manager Gozilla. Spyware is a program that surreptitiously collects information about your computing habits and delivers it to the maker of the program.

But how do you know if a program you use contains spyware?

If you've been watching "The Screen Savers" for even a short while, you know that we recommend a program called Ad-aware.

I store the program in my Start menu and whenever I install something I run the program to see if I've been infected by spies. The program scans my system and shows me a report. Then I can easily go through and delete everything I don't want. It even includes a backup-and-restore utility and an intuitive interface.



The program is compatible with Windows 98, 2000, NT, XP, and Me.

The basic version is still free, but for $15 you can register for Ad-aware Plus, which includes an update service called Ad-Watch and free lifetime product support.

Download Ad-aware 6