How to Install a Spyware Sweeper?

No matter what type of computer you use or what you use it for, proper spyware and virus protection is essential. Many websites contain malicious code that can infect your computer, log your keystrokes and steal your personal information. A good spyware sweeper program is a key component in protecting against malicious programs.

# Step 1: Check the computer for any spyware sweepers that are installed. Look for products by computer protection makers such as Norton, Symantec and Computer Associates. Open any programs that are found and inspect them for existing spyware protection. Keep in mind that it is possible, and even helpful, to have more than one spyware protection program installed on the same computer.

# Step 2: Log on to the Internet and search for "free anti-spyware packages." A number of free or low-cost programs are available. AdAware, Spybot Search & Destroy and AVG are among the best-known programs and most widely used. Check each program's details and select the one most appropriate for your computer usage.

# Step 3: Go to the downloads section of the manufacturer's website and download the appropriate installation program. Make sure to download the program designed for the computer's operating system.

# Step 4: Choose a location for the downloaded file. For many computers the default download path will be "My Documents" or "My Downloads." After the program finishes downloading, double-click on it to start the installation.

# Step 5: Confirm the installation path for the downloaded file. Most of the time you should choose the default directory. An exception would be if the computer has two hard drives and you prefer to keep programs on the "D" drive.

# Step 6: Enter registration information if requested. Some spyware sweeper programs require computer users to register the software, even if the software is free.
# Step 7: Wait for the installation to finish, then open the spyware sweeper program and look for the update option. Choose and click "Update" to have the program download and install any updates released since the installation package was produced.