Spyware Doctor 8.0

Overview

It cannot be denied that Spyware Doctor has received many awards and it is easy to see why. The simplicity with which this detects, removes and blocks known spyware is remarkable. It has a feature called OnGuard, which ensures it continually monitors your computer in real time thwarting any viruses before they get the chance to climb onboard your computer. Continual database updates ensures your computer has the latest protection available at all times.

Installation

Installation should be straightforward but you will have to re-boot your computer before it can work. Also, remember to disable and remove any other anti-virus software you have on your PC before you activate the re-boot as this can cause a conflict with Spyware Doctor. Spyware Doctor begins to work as soon as the computer is switched on and checks the registry and startup menu for any changes that can be effected by malware.

Interface

It has a simply and intuitive interface with support and help which makes this tool simple to use. You can customize settings so if you are a more advanced user, this is a great option. This tool can be run on Windows 7 (32bit, 64bit), Windows Vista SP1+ (32bit, 64bit), Windows XP SP2+ (32bit) operating systems.

Pros

The latest version, released in August 2010, it has garnered quite a respectable following already. Spyware Doctor, once working properly, takes a short time to scan the most important areas of your computer on its first run out and it then present its results with an audible sound if you have that switched on. Any issues are categorized into low, medium and high risk and these include tracking cookies. Some tracking cookies can be harmless and are useful when visiting the same websites daily, but some can be used by a virus to gain entry to your computer. You will have to upgrade to the full version to be able to remove any problems discovered. Once the full license has been acquired then you can choose to customize future scans to either scan your whole system or just certain drives. You can also customize the other settings. Spyware Doctor also offers browsing protection to prevent phishing or keylogging software to access your data. You are also automatically alerted to “bad” websites before you access them. There are so many more functions and protection facilities that can be covered in this short space and simply put, all of these add value and merit to this tool.

Cons

One disadvantage of Spyware Doctor is that it is very heavy on system resources, especially with older machines and it can take quite some time to start up which can be very frustrating. One disadvantage I personally feel is very unfair is that you are not told in advance before downloading it that you can use it to check your system for issues but it will not remove them until you buy the full version.

Alternatives

There are lots of alternatives to Spyware Doctor; some free and some paid. Whether you choose one with additional online malware and virus protection or just the traditional antivirus software will determine the benefits. Comodo is the best free version and is a very good alternative to consider. There are also others like Spyware Terminator and Arovax AntiSpyware that have features similar to the Spyware Doctor.

Conclusion

I have given this one a slight reduction in rating due to the fact that the free downloadable version is virtually useless in terms of real protection. It may identify problems but will not take care of them unless you upgrade to the paid version. It would be better to have a full version with a 30-day trial and an option to buy. But features wise; it has done its part.

Editor rating

3.5/5