What is "spyware"?
In a nutshell, spyware is software that collects data from a user's computer without the user's knowledge or permission. There are also subcategories under spyware, such as "keyloggers".
Spyware is not going to go on a rampage through your computer, chewing up files and crashing Windows as it goes. If it did, you'd probably know that some bug had wormed its way in, and so you wouldn't be typing any confidental info or shopping.
No, spyware will most likely sneak around, trying to be invisible. And log actions and keystrokes. You can expect it to attempt to transmit this data to someone "out there".
To fight spyware, there are some tools you can use. But note that you shouldn't use too many of these security applications, as then you can expect your computer to slow down (and there may be more "side affects" than that).
These rely mostly on the blacklisting technique, which is an imperfect way to protect ourselves (but they still are useful). There are not many programs which have great methods for fighting spyware, or in that case, all malicious software. But all three of the free Comodo Internet Security's main components can be used to fight spyware:
- Defense+ (the HIPS): Alerts user to suspicious actions.
- The Firewall: Catch spyware trying to connect to the internet.
- The Antivirus: Send known spyware to quarantine.
If utilized correctly, not much will get past that.
"Malware" means "malicious software". As you may have guessed, that means the term covers about all the baddies you have to worry about. Spyware, worms, Trojans, and more. Sometimes I wonder why companies call some of their security products "antiviruses", when they cover many more types of malware than just viruses. Maybe it is because people are used to that word.
Anyway, some of the protection applications I mentioned above cover general malware too. These internet security suites would work fine, and my two favorite HIPS/isolation products, GeSWall (free & paid versions) and DefenseWall (paid version), can stand alongside most any security programs and not cause trouble.