How to use Spybot Search & Destroy
About Spybot - Search and Destroy
Spybot - Search & Destroy (often called Spybot S&D or just plain Spybot) is a free spyware detection and removal program for Microsoft Windows. This page explains how to install, configure and run Spybot.
How do I get Spybot?
- Spybot is free for individuals, although you can make a donation to its hard-working author if you like.
- Go to the Safer Networking site, then click on the Download link at the top of the page.
- Now click next to the most recent version of Spybot - Search and Destroy to download it to your computer.
- If you are taken to another site to perform the actual download, you just need to look for Spybot - Search and Destroy and then click the Download button.
How do I install, update and run Spybot the first time?
Please see www.safer-networking.org/en/tutorial/tutorial_start.html for the most current instructions.
How do I update Spybot in the future?
New spyware variants come out all the time, and so you need to keep Spybot up-to-date in order for it to be effective. For instructions, please see www.safer-networking.org/en/howto/update.html. After you have updated, go ahead and have Spybot scan your computer for spyware again.
Be sure that you update and run Spybot at least once a week.
What else should I do to stay safe?
To keep your computer safe, use a program like Spybot in addition to a firewall, a virus protection program, and automatic Windows updates.
Should I install a second spyware detection program?
That's actually a pretty good idea. Spybot is an excellent program, but no one program is likely to catch all spyware. Installing a second spyware detection program can give you even better security. Please see the IT Help Center's spyware information page for details (and warnings) about other programs.
For more information
If you would like to learn more about adware and spyware, please visit the IT Help Center's main Spyware information page. If you need help using Spybot S&D on your computer, call the IT Help Center at 617/353-7272.