Ad-Aware 2007 Free is a solid post-infection tool. If you don't want to dredge up the money to purchase real-time protection with Ad-Aware Plus or Pro, we recommend this free version as a utility that savvy users shouldn't be without. However, as threats become more sophisticated, the real-time protection available with the Plus and Pro versions should be a strong consideration.

The beta of NIS 2009 shows that Symantec is on track to vastly improve performance in Norton. The UI is clear and uncluttered, putting front and centre only the elements most users need to see, while allowing for easy drill-down for those who want more. Having said that, we'd like the CPU usage meter to be easier to access. It would match the product's one-click ease of use in other areas. Still, with so much performance enhancement, such quibbles get left in the dust of this speedy, smooth new suite.

True, your existing antivirus program likely has antispyware features of its own. But if you suspect you might have spyware on your PC and you want to double-check your antivirus program's assessment, download Lavasoft Ad-Aware 2008 Free for an extra spyware and privacy scan.

Even if it wasn't free, AVG Anti-Virus 8.0 Free would be a good antivirus product.

ClamWin Free Antivirus is a solid free antivirus program. We wouldn't recommend that you use it as your sole method of protection, but it is well worth having as an extra level of security.

ThreatFire adds a worthwhile layer of security for your computer. Even more impressively, it's free.

A welcome addition, but don't trash your existing tools yet.

With a wide array of protections for your PC, Avast! works superbly to keep your computer safe, a rare thing in free software.

Probably the best free anti-spyware software currently available. Combine it with a few other freebies and you’ll never be troubled by pop-ups again.

Combine this with other free software and you’ll ensure your PC stays well protected and operating properly.

K9 is an effective Web filter for parents. It's easy to use, won't take up noticeable system resources and can even guard against keyword searches. With nothing to pay, it's well worth checking out.

As the most powerful anti-spyware program available online HijackThis is also the most complicated. It is extremely useful for removing problems other programs just can’t crack.