Setting up and installing Spy Sweeper is a snap. After downloading a copy from the Internet and launching the installation wizard, you're prompted to choose your default settings, such as scan frequency. Spy Sweeper then asks permission (which you should grant) to connect to its home base and retrieve the latest version of its spyware-threat database. After updating, Spy Sweeper is ready to start cleaning your system.
Spy Sweeper uses an intuitive user interface. Just press the Sweep Now button to scan your system, then the Remove button to rid it of any found spyware. If Spy Sweeper identifies any programs you know you want to keep (for example, if you find out later that a removed app is essential to any shareware you use), you can tell Spy Sweeper to ignore them in the future.
Like Spybot and Microsoft AntiSpyware, Spy Sweeper includes proactive shields that scan for new pests trying to infest your system while you surf or download files. Whereas Spybot produces a pop-up dialog box requiring you to answer yes or no to a specific installation request, Spy Sweeper flags the new installations with a brief pop-up over the taskbar in the lower-right corner of the screen and asks later whether to accept or remove the installed components. As with Microsoft AntiSpyware, you can schedule Spy Sweeper to run only during off-hours.
