So many programs, so little knowledge

[novicegeek]

Hi folks,

I've got a question about all these antivirus, spyware (etc.) programs. I'm a little confused. I know you shouldn't run two or more antivirus programs at the same time, but what exactly qualifies as an antivirus program. I hear a lot about Malwarebytes. Is that similar to an antivirus program? What about something like Spybot (which I realize is outdated)? Is that just for spyware? How do I make sense of all these programs out there promising to help me clean up my computer?

Thanks for your help on all this.

 

[johnb35]

Yes, you should only install 1 antivirus program at a time. Malwarebytes, Spybot, Adaware, Superantispyware are malware programs not antivirus programs. You can have as many malware programs installed as you seem fit but its not necessary as Malwarebytes is usually the only one you will need. On certain occasions I will have someone run Superantispyware when I know that program will remove an infection. Spybot and Adaware are old and outdated programs. Malware programs are usually on demand scanners which means they are only active when you manually run them.