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Spyware removal and protection is a major factor in computer safety. This covers anti virus, anti spyware, anti spam and other such pests. With a large number of well known and lesser known applications available which will remove malware, the question has been asked why anyone would pay for them.
Interestingly, virtually all of the free anti spyware and other malware tools have paid for versions available. For some, there is free use of home users only but if the product is to be used on a network then a fee becomes available. (There are a number of ways to discover if a computer is on a network).
Other companies restrict key aspects of their anti spyware software by disabling it in some way or by adding attractive features in the paid version. Some companies provide a free spyware download and perhaps and initial removal, but then it becomes necessary to pay. Other anti spyware applications are sold on a shareware basis so that the program is time limited and becomes unable to be used after a certain number of days. Also there is shareware which is open ended and basically up to the honesty of the user to pay up after a stipulated trial period.
So why pay? A range of attractive options are provided to encourage users of free versions, or those who don't use any removal tool to purchase a full version. Below are some of the general advantages of using the paid for version anti spyware software.
1. Automated Updates. These are updates which happen on a very regular basis which are at least weekly and often daily. There can also be updates which occur as soon as the update is available. Automated updates are ideal because your computer is always right up to date with the latest version and also because you don't have to even think about doing updates on a regular basis. It all takes place in the background so it is all very user friendly.
2. Realtime Protection is often restricted to paid-for versions of anti spyware software. It is much better to stop malware coming in to your computer in the first place, than having to track it down and use a spyware removal tool after the damage is done. Most of the better spyware tools allow for customization so if you wish to allow some legitimate activity from safe sites you can do so.
3. Scheduling of scans is another feature which is disabled in some free anti spyware tools. Scheduling is useful in providing an automated scan and again, and is one less thing to worry about. It is particularly useful when there are various computer users, so the scan can run in a standard way for every user. Again, most professional applications allow for a high degree of customization.
4. Free customer support always comes with paid for anti spyware software. Hopefully, everything will always run smoothly, but with the a wide range of setups out there and computers which already have viruses, spyware, other malware and incorrectly installed applications, there is always the chance help is needed. It is certainly easier to get support with a paid for program.
It is preferable to be on the safe side and install a professional, well recommended anti spyware program. To do anything less is false economy.
It is amazing that people will spend money without thought on all kinds of items, where for less than a good meal can gain peace of mind. At its worst, Spyware can be a key in your identity being stolen. At the very least, spyware is quietly tracking your web and computer behaviour and a marketing profile about you is sent without your knowledge to advertising companies. A small investment is insurance against a technical glitch or a major misfortune.
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» left by Jane Flowers(196) Jane Flowers (175 days 23 hours ago.)
A good article which will not be truely appreciated until the bugs hit the fan...then we all rue the day we went for the freebie! Respond to this comment
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Article added to SearchWarp.com on Monday, June 09, 2008 View other articles written by Grant Alexander(0)
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