If you're sick of the unmanageable onslaught of spy ware ad ware and other nasties such as browser hijacks, then you should try Microsoft’s latest software acquisition.

Formerly known as GIANT AntiSpyware, this version of the award winning software is free to Windows users while still in Beta.

While the current version appears to have no difference to its originator other than re-branding, Microsoft is releasing regular signature updates.

The software performs fairly well at both detecting and removing spy ware and malicious programs. However it has been found that there are several false detections that mark harmless software as spy ware and remove them.

An additional down side is the performance hit that the application makes on an already over burdened Service Pack 2 system. Running a complete scan can take quite some time and canceling mid scan resets any record of found spy ware so far.

Verdict:

If you have GIANT AntiSpyware already, then don’t bother with this upgrade till further features are added.

If you’re running another competing spy ware removal tool and you’re unsatisfied with its detection, give Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware a try.

You may find a host of hidden Trojans and keyloggers that other software simply missed.

Don’t have any software to combat spy ware yet? Well, unless u use a browser other than Internet Explorer and you avoid the bad neighborhoods of the internet; its quite possible you’re system has been compromised.

Where can I get Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware?
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx