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Maintain Computer Systems and Networks. What is antispyware?.
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What is antispyware? • Antispyware is a type of computer software that is typically designed to detect and remove malicious or threatening programs from a computer. These programs are often calledspyware, hinting at their propensity to collect and send an individual’s personal information to a third party without his or her consent.
What is spyware? • Spyware is a type of malicious program, also called malware, that sends information from a computer to a third party without the user’s knowledge or consent. The type of data retrieved by these programs varies, but many collect information about a user’s Internet-surfing habits, online purchases, and even keystrokes, such as passwords. Also, these programs may change the computer’s settings and functionality. Antispyware seeks to block or remove such programs.
There are two main ways that antispyware functions. The first is by catching incoming spyware in real time. This system scans computer transactions coming over the Internet. When it detects a potential spyware, it attempts to block it before the malicious program has a chance to lodge itself in the root directory, or another area, on the computer. This real time detection typically occurs at the time of download.
The second type of antispyware uses an updateable list of known spyware to protect a computer. Many users frequently download new versions of this record to keep their protection software up-to-date. Instead of blocking potentially harmful programs from being downloaded, this type of software detects and removes those that have already loaded themselves onto the computer.
Antispyware of this type typically scans the registry, programs, and operating system files. Then, it compares these files to its list of known malware. If a file matches one on the list, the antispyware usually isolates and removes it.
Activity • Read this article online, http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art51570.asp, and answer the following questions: • How does the antispyware protect your computer? • Spyware is thought to be harmful to your computer. Why? • Give at least 3 antispyware software examples and list the steps on how to install these software.