PC Tools Spyware Doctor (Prevent & Cure PC Diseases )

We all know that malware is a threat to our PC’s well-being, but we don’t want to have to think about that on a daily basis. Instead, we need a product that can intercept malicious attacks and diagnose online threats all at once, so we’re not hyper-conscious of what could happen to corrupt our OS at any given moment.

PC Tools Spyware Doctor ($29.95; www.pctools.com) keeps your Windows PC on lockdown against numerous threat variants, such as spyware, Trojans, keyloggers, and worms. To protect your PC from exposure, Spyware Doctor employs the IntelliGuard feature, which provides real-time monitoring and protection of the hard drive, email attachments, and Web browser. If something tries to get in, IntelliGuard doesn’t simply alert you; it also actively blocks malware before it can harm your computer.

The IntelliScan function uses spider-scanning technology to identify suspicious activity and stop potential attacks within roughly three minutes. More complex viral programs require heavy artillery, so Spyware Doctor uses advanced behavioral methods and rootkits to dig up the stealthy viruses that lurk in the recesses of a Windows PC.

To function effectively, Spyware Doctor silently monitors your system while you continue to use the interface. If a serious attack has been deflected, Spyware Doctor will alert the end user through a small pop-up window. So, if you prefer uninterrupted working or movie-watching, Spyware Doctor won’t bother you. You can, however, adjust settings by enabling Full Screen Detection Mode and Smart Updates to your liking.

Email Guard, which supports Outlook Express, Netscape, and Thunderbird, eliminates both spyware and viruses that are transferred via email message. Site Guard scans questionable Web sites and safeguards against phishing. PC Tools Spyware Doctor is compatible with Windows 2000/XP/Vista (32- and 64-bit).