Microsoft AntiSpyware Installation

The following screenshot is the initial installion screen for Microsoft AntiSpyware (beta1). (Read the full review). Note the picture of what looks like an archer's target in the upper left corner of the screen.

 

Microsoft AntiSpyware SpyNet

Midway through the installation, Microsoft invites you to join 'SpyNet'. There's something incongruous about an anti-spyware app that asks you to join a network wherein data from your machine will be collected and shared with others.

 

Microsoft AntiSpyware final installation screen

At the end of the installation, Microsoft AntiSpyware prompts you to scan now. It also asks whether you would like a scan performed nightly at 2 a.m. Reports from beta testers indicate this scheduling feature may not work properly.

Microsoft AntiSpyware scan summary

After completing a scan, Microsoft AntiSpyware displays a summary dialog depicting what was scanned and what was discovered. This summary is optional and can be disabled by checking the appropriate box in the same dialog.

Microsoft AntiSpyware results screen

This screenshot displays a list of all spyware/adware found. On the right hand side is a description of the type of 'threat' discovered. Note that in many instances, Microsoft AntiSpyware will designate a tagged program as 'Very High Risk'. This assessment is even assigned to benign adware programs the user has agreed to install in exchange for free software.

 

Microsoft AntiSpyware changed settings alert

Microsoft AntiSpyware alerts when an attempt is made to change the browser's start or search pages. This tactic is commonly used by affiliate advertisers to force traffic to specific web pages.