Someone reviewed v on Jul 5, 2022

Pros: 555

Cons: 555

Bottom Line: 555

sheinaya reviewed v1.1.1593 on Jul 21, 2012

Cool! but try ca anti virus, for me its the best, real time scanner is very light, unlike other anti-virus makes your PC stuck at 5-10secs.
I have a copy, license will expire on 2015,
you can download it here>> ca-anti-virus dot weebly dot com

Mastertech reviewed v1.1.1593 on Jun 25, 2007

Excellent program that works unobtrusively in the background, updates automatically, includes real time protection and is completely free.

caronn reviewed v1.1.1593 on Mar 21, 2007

Very good, and well designed for Windows.

theminhb reviewed v1.1.1593 on Mar 17, 2007

I used Defender early on in XP, never found one thing. Now 1 1/2 months later in Vista, still the same, never finds anything while Webroots Spysweeper is often triggered. I went to edit a photo using Windows Photo Gallery and immediately Spysweeper prompted me of an embedded trojan, Windows Defender, not a peep. I use Defender for the Software Explorer under Tools. Nice feature, I give it a 3 for that.

tom3311 reviewed v1.1.1593 on Mar 16, 2007

Vista already includes Windows Defender, so this new install would only be required for XP or earlier versions of Windows...

Adrian79 reviewed v1.1.1593 on Mar 15, 2007

vista? or only xp

wampamba reviewed v1.1.1593 on Mar 15, 2007

Not me First Blood.I suggest Spyware Terminator.The best i have used in eight years.

Macross74 reviewed v1.1.1593 on Mar 15, 2007

THis is a step in the right direction for MS for their OS, it still has a long way to go to get everything spybot and ad aware get.
But in saying that, spybot does not find all the items ad aware finds, and on a few occasions defender has found a few items neither had.

oivi reviewed v1.1.1593 on Mar 15, 2007

what's up with the talk of "version 7" ? I saw MS used the term on the download page - but in reality it's version 1.1.1593.0
Anyway - Defender never found a thing - ...other programs have.

mjm01010101 reviewed v1.1.1593 on Mar 15, 2007

As an admin, how do I uninstall the previous version programically? (i.e. referring to the MSI) I've tried the /uninstall switch, it doesn't work. Installing the new version doesn't want to uninstall the old version. Any ideas? Other MS software I can use my usual methods on it...

The release notes page isn't updated with this version.

MS is on the ball lately with these "silent" updates.

mikeyx11 reviewed v1.1.1593 on Mar 15, 2007

Piece of crap. Slows the computer down, has poor detection rates, always has problems updating and the GUI could be better coming from Microsoft.

I recommend Spyware Terminator:
http://fileforum.betanew...Terminator/1139394850/1

Spyware Terminator is also free, and so much better than Windows Defender.

hell0 reviewed v1.1.1593 on Feb 23, 2007

Its detection rate is a joke. Do a google search about it. Use something rebiable like Kaspersky, NOD32, AVG, or Avira instead. Also use Spybot S&D as a backup against spyware.

shxrobert reviewed v1.1.1593 on Feb 7, 2007

Very underrated utility from Microsoft. 5/5

yagood reviewed v1.1.1593 on Dec 31, 2006

"Three words: Kas-pers-ky."

It's one word...

Neoprimal reviewed v1.1.1593 on Nov 10, 2006

I can't complain at all. The program is quite unobtrusive and has a very small memory footprint, considering it's running resident. The scans are pretty damned fast and it hasn't made any mistakes in my system so far (blocked wrong programs/ports/etc). All my upgrades went smoothly, from beta 1 all the way up to beta 2 and refreshes and then the final. Just remember to hit the 'check for new def' if you don't have the program set to auto dl/install them because on every install it reverts to very old definition files (maybe 1 compat. with all the engines?). I recommend it....may actually get the nerve to remove spybot soon.

DeadFly reviewed v1.1.1593 on Nov 9, 2006

A pretty usable app, although I sometimes have trouble getting it to pull down updates.
From the D/L page:
Note: If you have version 1.1.1592.0, you must first manually uninstall Windows Defender before you can install this newer version. To configure or remove the existing version, use Add/Remove programs in the Control Panel.

mmatheny reviewed v1.1.1593 on Nov 9, 2006

Great! Can't upgrade!!

Windows installer
Another version of this product is already installed. Installation of this version cannot continue. To configure or remove the existing version of this product, use Add/Remove Programs on the Control Panel

Crap!!!

mjm01010101 reviewed v1.1.1593 on Nov 9, 2006

Makes XP worth the price, finally.

Great app that is non-intrusive, unlike most other antispyware apps out there.

Now MS just has to fix it's weak-A55 browser!

Esquire reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

1. Setup does not include all Windows Defender definitions to date - the included definition is 10 months old!

And if you install this version over Beta 2, it will remove all definitions on your computer as well! Are exisiting definitions not compatible??

2. Initial online update has always been slow and problematic - had to repeat many times, and I see some improvements (sometimes).

3. Personally, I think the new color scheme that changes from blue on the left to green on the right is ugly.

Blaxima reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

Is it just me or was this a better program when it was in Beta?? Thats when it still looked and operated like Giant AntiSpy.
First things first, the scanner is very fast but it doesnt seem to detect minor things that both Spybot and Adawre do. These aren't anything to be concerned about mind you but I like to know and have full control and with Defender I don't.

Secondly, I hate programs that even when they're not supposed to be running for some reason are trying to communicate online. I only wanted this to scan when I say and other than that I dont want it running at all. Well after exit the program and no icons visible in the tray my firewall informs me that Defender is dialing home inspite of me telling it not to and it not supposed to be running!

Lastly, I find all of the Vista and Live products to look like garbage. M$ needs to fire the entire design team because they are pumping out ugly and sloooooooooooooooooow software

Browser12 reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

Its hard for me to review this, mainly because unlike spybot and adaware which i used to use on my old pc, this isn't as hands on. Meaning, it sorta works under the radar, you dont get any major alarms or messages. But i guess thats a good thing. I've only used this as my anti spyware software since i bought my new pc about 6 months ago, and i haven't seen any wierd spyware adds, pop ups or slow downs do to spyware. So that being the case, I give it a 5.

bourgeoisdude reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

Yes, it's me, the "Microsoft lover" (rolls eyes). Well, I couldn't be much more disappointed in this product.

First, the pro's: It does have those neet little LSP viewers and such hidden in the advanced interface, and they are beyond useful. The only reason I rate this 3 out of 5 is because of those plugins.

Cons: Detection rate is less than decent. It has not removed any adware in its entirety, mostly because it does not remove the trojan downloaders that got them on the system in the first place. As much as we would like to distinguish the two, spyware scanners CANNOT BE EFFECTIVE without being able to remove trojan downloaders, period. Yeah, it finds some--but not enough.

"The worldwide SpyNet community plays a key role in determining which suspicious programs are classified as spyware."

This sounded so great--but I have yet to see anything that the community HAS rated.

Macross74 reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

Not the greatest all in one spyware protection / removal program, it does get some things that others dont and vis versa.
Still something that is good to have tho as it does inform you when settings are being changed without your consent or knowledge.

TomA102210 reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

"Microsoft Windows Defender vs Spybot
Any Comments??"
-------------------------------------
Sure. Use both. I do and so do many others.

midnighter_9999 reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

Microsoft Windows Defender vs Spybot
Any Comments??

wanderer2005 reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

I agree with most users that Window Defender is a decent antispyware scanner and remover. However, there are some annoyances. As Alex Stevens mentioned before, there is no progress bar displaying the updating of spyware signature. In addition, the user interface is barren, too barren. For example,I could not find the log of scan results.

mjm01010101 reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

Rolled out to our domain using /silent switch and wiped Spybot today. For domains with WSUS, a great solution.

Bring on MS antivirus, I have no love for Symantec/trend/Mcaffee and their random glitches.

ghammer reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

Wish it provided a bit more info, but works fine.

As for the brilliant comments like "g**ed" and "needs SP2", ha, ha, ha. Your comments amaze one and all for their lack of coherence, usefulness, and content.

The MAZZTer reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

An excellent program with real-time protection as well as the standard scanning engine. Has replaced Ad-Aware as my anti-spyware of choice.

Alex Stevens reviewed v1.1.1592 on Oct 24, 2006

Works fine, has a few annoyances I don't like such as the lack of a progress indicator when updating. For the person who gave it a 1 because it requires SP2, that's stupid. There's nothing wrong with SP2 and anyone still not running it is an idiot.

stisev reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Sep 17, 2006

It seems MS has g**ed yet another piece of software.

Way to go.

gammapooka reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Sep 12, 2006

Program sucks, it needs service pack 2.
Since Servicepack 2 sucks im not gonna install it

mrgcav reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Jun 19, 2006

Windows Defender error 0x8050800.
I test software, especially antivirus and antispyware. W.D. beta2 Does not work. NO SUPPORT Until they fix it, use something else.

I am an experienced power user. I had no pronlems with Microsoft Antispyware original and beta 1. The new name "Windows Defender " is as usless as the program. Windows Defender is full of bugs. I got an error Windows Defender error 0x8050800 on quick and full scan.

The interface menu is too simple and plain. Hard to find controls. I am switching back to Ad-Aware, Webroot Spysweeper and the Windows Defender equivilant CounterSpy. Windows Defender has no support. Can not even manually update it or complain to anyone about it. If you ask me Microsoft has screwed up a great program, Microsoft Antispyware by GIANT. Worst MS software I have ever seen. And I like MS software.

Microsoft are you listing ????

MRGCAV@hotmail.com

Send complaints to support@microsoft.com, service@microsoft.com

davygiven reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on May 24, 2006

It finally updated itself today :oO

zyfos reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on May 8, 2006

Why is it that you have the option to do a custom install, choose NOT to install the Windows Defender component, but can then continue the installation anyway?

When the Defender service is stopped and you try to start the GUI, why don't they have it restart the service for you instead of giving an odd error?

When you close the GUI, why does it keep running?

I'm thinking MS AntiSpyware (Beta 1) was better.

Loopism reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on May 3, 2006

Can't really recommend it until it updates properly. Not even the Knowledgebase article fixes the problem

Sagacious Himself reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 29, 2006

Might be useful once 'they' enable offline updates.

SebXX reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 22, 2006

2nd or 3rd try on different pc, and still the updates wont download. (even with KB article http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=915105 )

microFawad reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 21, 2006

I like this software bcoz it works in a way that I want.

Jordanr05 reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 19, 2006

Still will not update no matter what I try - I find it rediculous.

(Yes i've tried all the definition uninstall methods and registry hacks).

mjm01010101 reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 14, 2006

"Microsoft researchers quickly"
LOL. There's a good one.

eviljolly reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 13, 2006

Not bad, but why do we really need this. Couldn't this all just be a part of their Microsoft Antispyware package? Or is this just the new name for it? Either way, a fairly solid product. We'll see if it ever makes it out of beta though.

eclipsingdivinity reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 13, 2006

A rock solid AS app that has managed to be somewhere in the middle in detection performance. The interface is clean of bullsh!t that plagues many security software today. Many people argue that it's the features that make or break an antimalware proggy, but when it comes to spyware, just give me a damn scan button please :-). MS did that, and they offer realtime protection for free.

This would be a perfect score, but they have a long way to go to offer the protection Ad-Aware, Spy Sweeper and Counterspy offer these days.

dejavu reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 13, 2006

Updates troubles, try:

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=915105

mmatheny reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 13, 2006

Why doesn't it work like Windows, where if you are using a WSUS server, it automatically pulls from it, but a manual update goes to MS Update site - what happens if you WSUS server goes down - you can't get updates!?!?! What a short-sited implementation!

GoodThings2Life reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 13, 2006

I love this product, but this particular build is refusing to install updates for me. I have reverted back to the previous build. It is possible that it is our campus firewall blocking the updates, but the previous build is allowing them just fine, so that seems unlikely. I'll try again on the next build and check the Antimalware team's blog for more info.

gerryf reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 13, 2006

Unbelievable how badly MS has messed up Giant's once great software package. It is more difficult to manuerver the user interface, it is more resource intensive, and still does not update!

If you were making an update of significance, and you're product was based on a constantly evolving environment like malware that absolutely required updated definitions, wouldn't fixing the update mechanism be TOP priority?

Very disappointed

taz757 reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 13, 2006

For those of you that are saying that Defender does not update, are you in a corporate enviroment that is using WSUS to update your machines? Well, if you are, there's your problem. Defender uses the Automatic Update service to pull the new defs. If you don't update your WSUS servers with the updates for Defender, you'll never get updated. That's all there is to it.

mutara reviewed v1.1.1347 Beta 2 on Apr 13, 2006

Doesn't update at all. Even manual update doesn't work. Much worse than Microsoft Antispyware.

hackerace reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Mar 21, 2006

While I realize that this is "beta" software it is really hard to evaluate how effective it is if you can't update it. Mine states that it has not updated in 55 days. You would think that this is a long time between updates! In fact I do not believe that this software has EVER updated.

This bodes well for Microsoft's anti-virus! LOL

Oldsod reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Mar 14, 2006

Microsoft Defender is the two steps back from the one step forward of the MSAS. Does not update very well and shouldn't a MS soft actually know that windows components are safe and not questionable. Destroying other security app's is one thing, but not having a database of Windows is another. Poor in removal and shield makes the cpu spike like crazy. It uninstalls very nice. No thank you.

Techguy22 reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Mar 11, 2006

I installed Windows Defender and it said it had not been updated in x number of days
So I clicked check for updates and it said it updated but when I went to scan it was not updated. So I restarted the program, and it did not update, then I restated the computed,and did not update, then I tried Microsoft update and it still did not update.

james_t_pimp reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Mar 2, 2006

So far, it doesn't seem to do anything and hasn't updated in over a month. I don't feel protected at all.

The interface is much worse than MS Antispyware Beta too. I would steer clear of this until another revision comes out.

Perdiem856 reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 27, 2006

I installed Windows Defender and immediately had to download a update, within the first three days the program updated twice more....

all the while, i watched my PC Resources being taken by WD... i uninstalled and will wait for a future version......

i have used all the spybot type programs and i will continue to use caution when surfing....

Master- reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 22, 2006

Useless. Req. Service Pack 2....

btman reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 20, 2006

a step bak in my opinion too.... no icon makes me mad.... the castle icon ne way makes me feel like im a kid... like a moron... the scans (full scan anyway) takes atleast 20 minutes more then microsoft antispyware did... it doenst say if an infections found while the scan is running you have to stop it.... it doesnt say how far the scans done... found 2 things with one scan... useless things easily removed by other scans... i didnt like microsoft antispyware for serious protection and im not liking this

Diam0nd reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 19, 2006

Not bad.

craigeric reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 19, 2006

I fixed my problem with the yellow exclamation point and as soon as it updated to the latest definitions the icon showed a green checkmark and then the icon dissapeared which is normal. The icon will not be visible if there is no action required, so no icon is ok :D.. anyway, if someone needs help if they have the exclamation point just write a review, i will keep checking back

bobad reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 17, 2006

Still a nice program, but it REALLY SHOULD have a tray icon. MS has re-designed this program from the ground up, so it's obvious they did not buy out Giant for the code. They bought them out to eliminate a competitor.

mufdvr3669 reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 17, 2006

Works allright. Didn't find any additional spyware that other programs won't find, giving it a one because it does have background programs that constantly run even after you exit out of defender. Doesn't even give you the option to disable them. So if you like programs to run in the background without you having the option to turn them off, this program is for you. If you don't like being treated like a monkey and having some company determine what's best for you then there are other options.

Zerbe reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 16, 2006

Windows Defender is a step back in my opinion, it wont update right, after you do update it via windows update, then I get a nice error screen when trying to click on the home screen button and I also get errors during scanning. After reading some of the MS newsgroups, Im not the only one experiencing these problems. The lack of a tray icon is annoying. They should have called this alpha 2, not beat 2. Beta 1 was much better.

dvferret reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Accually this program has been working great and hopefully will continue to get better.

terminalx reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

LOL negative comments? they didn't delete it because you said negative comments because you...

A. did not even review the product
B. you are just flaming because it is microsoft
C. you are saying to try other products without even reviewing said product

Adrian79 reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

giant antispyware rules!!

Mrcubsfan1212 reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

I like the new look and it was fairly easy to navigate around the menus for me. The only thing that bothers me is that the definitions are 19 days old and I have a yellow exclamation point on the Windows Defender icon in the system tray. So the current signature version is 1.0.0.0?

hparra reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

I just installed this new "Windows Defender" because I loved the previous versions (had it from the Giant AS version) and IMHO the UI is much worse, options are more difficult to find and less configurable, there is not an icon, so the overall impression is much worse than the previous one. I hope they will get to fix it, while so I will stick to the old one, which still preserves some of the good-old Giant Antispyware appearance and functionality. It's a pity what a lot of money can do with a great program, although I hope they learn from their mistakes and improve it a lot if they don't want to lose the base of users. I wonder what people who payed for the old Giant AS will think about this...

KriTenKs reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

When this product was called Giant Anti-Spyware, it was praised as one of if not the best anti-spyware available. Microsoft buys it and low and behold its the worst thing ever made! Idiots, just go home.

This is an excellent product and best of all its Freeware. Try it.

Soozy reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

BetaNews needs to change the screen shot for Windows Defender, because the UI has totally changed.
This program is great and have been using it for awhile.

anna21 reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

I can't fully install rerror # 1602???

oubeaver reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Great anti-spyware. Keep it free Microsoft!

crashoverride: the missing tray icon sometimes idicates you already have spyware that didn't get removed all the way. and if Defender didn't get rid of it then you must have some nasty piece of spyware on your machine.

Tinker: obvioulsy you're not updated all the way. just go get the GDI update. also, make sure you have the last update rollup for Win2k that came out like a month ago.

czekar reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

I can't seem to find the proxy settings anymore. Utterly useless at a work environment. The screenshot is old.

rafaelcage reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

The best realtime antispyware protection for my pc!!

crashoverride reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

From what I have heard, when this was Giant Antispyware it was a good product. Well in good ole Microsoft fasion it has been destroyed.
They broke it. There's no system tray Icon. Also when I open it, it apears on the taskbar but a window never opens.

Edit: Shouldn't have to be doing this because the last version worked fine with windowblinds. Had to disable windowblinds to get the Defender window to appear. Still no tray icon.

Edit2: Did some spyware scans, still no tray Icon. Uninstalling this piece of crap. Still too buggy.

Tinker reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Unable to install.

Error message:

"This software requires GDI+. Please load the Windows 2000 Security Software PreRequisite Pack."

I'm current with all of my updates...

perhaps reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

To avoid error 1609 in the installation process using Windows XP Pro - SP2 non-english versions, create a new user group for your PC naming it as "USERS" with administrator access. That's all you need to do. You can find this option in Control Panel, Users Accounts.

HurricaneGame reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Windows Defender? Did they change the name?

Anyway, its a top anti-spyware program recommend to everyone :)

MichaelDHam reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Installation went smooth as silk here in removing Beta 1 and installing Defender Beta 2 and noticed that Defender seems better and more
aggressive in finding problems than its predessor. I give it a total thumbs ups at this point.

Zoroaster reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Install error message here also:

Error 1609. An error occured while applying security settings. Users is not a valid user or group. This could be a problem with the package, or a problem connecting to a domain controller on the network. Check your network connection and click Retry, or C...

- Defender install first started uninstalling previous MS AntiSpyware. Ok.
- Continued with the install: above error message.
- I cancelled. Finished cleaning MS AntiSpyware leftover with JV16PT (registry was full of MS AntiSpyware garbage). Rebooted and cleaned again.
- Rebooted. Started a clean install of MS Defender: same error message.
- Quit Kaspersky antispyaware and Kerio PF, and tried again to install Defender: same error message.

At this point I remain perplexed. Score is related to perplexity only ;)

EDIT: Others and elsewhere have experienced the same problem. A workaround is proposed here:
http://www.neowin.net/fo...indpost&p=587194309
I don't know what it's worth...

Mark Gillespie reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Massive improvement on the good MS Antispyware Beta 1.

Tokar reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Softpedia has proper screenshots for this version of Microsoft Antispyware (Beta 2)...as opposed to the outdated ONE here on Betanews.

fwet reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Works perfect, for those that know how to turn on a computer.

yokozuna reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

I see something like "Your computer has an invalid Volume License Product Key(...)" during the installation. The thing is that my system is legal, the key is valid and activated by Microsoft last month (and no VLP at all!). Do not even bother this version.

Zankur reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Its as good as the first one,but unfortunately i am no too happy with UI..Its just not for an average home-pc user..

gawd21 reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Worst version ever. Says services are disabled so it can't run or update. Says it hasn't been updated in 19 days and the old version 701 was updated and hour before. Very ugly GUI!

gate1975mlm reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

At firt I did not think I was going to like the new Windows Defender. But after using it for a few hours I am starting to like it a little. It starts up a lot faster then Microsoft Antispyware. And the Interface is very simple to use. I just would like to know and hope that Windows Defender will protect mt PC just as good or better then Microsoft Antispyware does.

Also has no option for a system tray icon. But I guess thats not really needed anyway.

Give it a try it may grow on you :)

Canuckistani reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 14, 2006

Oh, man. Too funny:
http://blog.washingtonpo...spyware_deleting_1.html

arossetti reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 13, 2006

No systray icon for quick access. No simple one page summary of last scan date, definition date, and active modules, and other useful info. Manual check for updates is buried in the side help-options menu. Over-simplified and a step backward for MSFT.

Hopefully it will be just as effective, but simply from a usability standpoint it's clearly a move in the wrong direction and one that I hope will be reversed before RTM.

blazo reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 13, 2006

I have been using MS Anti-Spyware Beta 1 for 4-5 months now without a whisper of a problem. It is efficient and works smoothely updating itself when required. I installed Beta 2 today 021305 and will report any anomalies or difficulties.

I have tried most of the anti-spyware programs available and the current MS Defender is my favorite. Even the price is right (after all they owe it to us to plug the leaks in the dams they built).

-blazo

petgamer reviewed v1.1.1051 Beta 2 on Feb 13, 2006

Well I can honestly say that at first glance, the new "Windows Defender" formally Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware takes on a completely different UI. It looks like Microsoft has again simplified the program to make it easy for computer illiterate people to use, but at the same time there's advanced options as well. The quick scan that was done on my system seemed to be a little faster, which is good. No surprise that the UI was done in the way to match like Windows OneCare though. It's a bit too simplified to me now, but it seems to have kept it's touch.

imanino reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Dec 26, 2005

I'm a little nervous about a lot of these reviews as they relate to security software. Most of them have this free=excellent orientation. I am a managed beta tester for OneCare, which is due to be integrated with this package to be called Defender. One of the things we have discussed is certain inadequacies in detection among Defender and the implications that could have for the rest of the OneCare Suite. The point here is that while free, even Microsoft acknowledges that MAS is not as good versus spyware as OneCare is relative to a lot of similar antiviral packages to this point. I will note, though, that everyone involved promises top-notch detection before the integration. Also, there have been some major and then minor problems with the Autoupdate system. Not surprising, since I've come to see failed or partial autoupdates as part of the endearing characteristics of Microsoft. :) What would MAS be without some update server bugs? When they say BETA, they MEAN it! I would recommend MAS, but in addition to, and nowhere near as a surrogate for other antispyware scanning programs, freeware or shareware and if you run several of them, you will get a sense of the pattern of missings for MAS. Free=worth having as a layer of additional protection not = best.

Highland 950v2 reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Dec 19, 2005

I really don't know what all the fuss is about
Updated to the latest version no problems at all
works fine ,updates regularly,spots startup
changes does what it says on the tin and best of all it's free......

Press any key reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 27, 2005

Downloaded from Microsoft site. Will NOT install. Says- send error message to MS. Trying another download in case 1st damaged.

MicrosoftAntiSpywareInstall.exe
6.54 MB (6,860,424 bytes)

*This is the 1st time any program install from MS has failed, from DOS 6.22 through Win95, 98SE, ME and XP.
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

I downloaded GIANTAntiSpywareMain.exe package TWICE, at 27 minutes each, plus two checks for genuine Windows. First time did not work at all, and my CPU ran flat out at 100% every time I started Windows. (May be unrelated, but since I installed the 2nd package, everything OK.)

Second time installed but it still shows the OLD installation, and expiry date of 31/12/2005.

=======================================
Setup for Microsoft AntiSpyware
version: 9.0.333.0
6.54 MB (6,860,424 bytes)

Latest download installed, but still reports:-

Microsoft AntiSpyware Version: 1.0.615
This version expires on: 31/12/2005
Spyware Definition Version: 5733 (27/11/2005 6:46:09 PM)

GIANTAntiSpywareMain.exe
GIANTAntiSpywareUpdater.exe
=========================================

So, in conclusion, the whole bloody thing has been a waste of time. Microsoft don't know if they have Giant or Microsoft software. They bought a fully working product and have been in Beta ever since. They really are copying Google, aren't they.

The three stooges have been put in charge of the development, and the person in charge of pushing the two buttons; build and compile; should be fired. Any drunk on the street corner could do it.

Would you trust these people to operate on your sister, let alone find Malware on your PC.
---

Mike162005 reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 22, 2005

Another idiot on BetaNews. *SIGHS*

cooldude7273 reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 22, 2005

Gerwin, you're an idiot.

This is a great product! :-)

russshoe reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 22, 2005

First scan with new build BSOD and all scans after

BobTheVeg reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 22, 2005

to Gerwin
Microsoft does not write spywares.

Pegusis2 reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 22, 2005

I've been using this since it came out and I find it very useful. It does what it supposed to do. I would certainly suggest this to anyone with a legal version of Windows XP/2000/2003. And I also use Adaware and AVG antivirus.

Gerwin reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 22, 2005

Great, Microsoft finally releases a program that runs in the background and solves the problems that windows causes. You morons are just like somebody thanking the butcher for the bandage he gave you after he cut your hand off.

crashoverride reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 22, 2005

Been using this beta since it first released. I'm sure this is a great program and I really like the layout of it. It has yet to find anything though . On the other had adaware only finds a few tracking cookies so I must be doing something right for neither of em to really find anything.

yohimbe9 reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

Very great tool, really happy that its free, at least for now.

For those of you that keep getting 615, the 701 setup should have a digital signature timestamp of Tuesday, November 15, 2005 and filesize of 6,910,088 bytes.

ServerMechanic reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

I still think it's one of the best (if not the single best) Anti-Spyware software out there.

I too installed the latest and it still says only 40 days left.

We'll see if it will update later or after a few more reboots.

mcm reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

"The question, of course, is when. With Windows Vista hurtling toward a Beta 2 release in December, Microsoft has been focusing on the version of Windows Defender that will be included with that product, causing development of the Windows XP version to lag."

Source:
http://www.windowsitpro....icleID/48377/48377.html

JonathanDoe reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

Awesome product, I've used it since it was GIANT Anti-Spyware.

Ahhhhhh...sigh. No update as of yet though,
waiting...
waiting...
waiting...

Scipio reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

I'm glad to see my experience confirmed. The MS website said it was updated version, but it was not. I DL'd it twice, I rebooted, and I even uninstalled and fresh installed it. Still version 615. I wish they'd get their act together.

It's a good product, but this was annoying. Wake me up when they post it.

Adrian79 reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

Microsoft AntiSpyware Version: 1.0.615
This version expires on: 12/31/2005
Spyware Definition Version: 5779 (11/21/2005 6:56:06 PM)

just like last update...took over a week to get the actual updated build, g**ness

Bugeyes reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

Still shows as 1.0.615 for me. I even uninstalled it, and then reinstalled it after attempting the 'upgrade' twice.

Buggy

arossetti reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

Hold on... MSFT hasn't updated all servers yet. Download is still the 615 build. It amazes me that this program is better than many "final" and costly versions of similar software, yet appears to be in a state of perpetual beta, further evidenced by the new 7/31/06 expiration date.

dzjepp reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

bourgeoisdude, it's not beta 1 anymore, it's 'build number beta'. It's probably going to remain so until a long while. I don't remember if those rumors ended up being true or not, but this app was supposed to be phased out in a year or so when the windows live security center debuts to the masses.

The app itself is not too shabby. It lets you check the state of default urls, activex installs, etc. something spybot dosen't do.

LazyBoyy reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

Doesn't do what the update was made for. I downloaded it and it still expiration date didnt change!

bourgeoisdude reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

Not the best, use Spybot and ad-aware or one of those with this one. Two things I would love to know:

1. How long is MS AntiSpyware going to remain BETA 1???

2. Why does the download say it is only 6KB?

Kompressor reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

What did Spybot find, 73 cookies?

hurzx reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

I got infected 2 days ago ( OHPE ver 4.12_23)and this app was of no help. Its scan found nothing when Spybot found 73 entries...

BoNeLeSS reviewed v1.0.701 Beta on Nov 21, 2005

There's no perfect anty-spyware tool, and MS Antyspyware is no exception. Anyway is a nice effort and does the job just like ad-aware and spybot. In fact these tools are also offered in MS security page.

oninopoo reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Nov 18, 2005

Microsofts AntiSpyware is better than most other programs out there and by far the best 'free' Anti-Spyware program. With it's large corporate backing you can expect it to not necessarily be the best, but among the highest rated and recommended overall.

JEdwardP reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Nov 7, 2005

For me, this is really a mixed-bag product. It "detected" a pretty annoying false-positive, and its default settings enable too many automatic options for my taste, but on the other hand, it also managed to clean out several dead registry entries that were remnants of spyware I had removed over a year ago.

I'd never recommend it in place of adaware or Spybot S&D, but would as an additional tool; it never hurts to have one more picket in the fence.

hurzx reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Nov 5, 2005

I'm not a MS fan at all. But I reckon this product to be more efficient than Ad-aware and Spybot.

benZin reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Oct 24, 2005

Yeah?

JoshvanHulst reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Oct 4, 2005

This is a really sweet program! I highly recommend using it for surfing dangerous sites

- Josh

PaneTrez reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Sep 21, 2005

A great product...More user friendly than SpyBot S&D, and more accurate and effective than Ad-Aware.

tmaioli reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Aug 26, 2005

This is a great set-and-forget product. Is it great b/c of Microsoft or is it great b/c of Gaint, and MS just changed some logos. That is a disscussion for others. The bottom line is it works, works well, is a product worthy of five stars. Microsoft bashers aside who will never be happy with anything... Let admit MS did something right. It's a baby step but MS is changing b/c the threats are changing, the marketplace is changing, and users are speaking up. It is up to all of you to review software, to make suggestions, and help improve a product. I used to think "why should I give my idea so someone else can us it?" But then I realized if I don't I will be buried with the music still in my head.

integrii reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Aug 12, 2005

Finds tons of spyware, great compliment to spybot and ad-aware. also uses Active protection to prevent getting spyware in the first place, auto-updates and scans daily in backgrond. great software.

Nikkie reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Jul 24, 2005

It found things other spyware programs couldn't . I guess me and the user below had different experiences .

Also this is free and i am not paying . Sorry . This works fine for me .

Btw , I build and fix up computers . They all run fine etc.

All you will ever need is firefox and this .o yeh zonealarms suite is fantastic for your pc..

bokhylla reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Jul 24, 2005

This program doesn´t find a lot of spyware. Webroot Spysweeper, Spyware Doctor, Ad-Aware and so on will find more!! I uninstalled Webroot Spysweeper and installed this program, and after two days I got a lot of spyware. This accordingly to Spyware Doctor and Ad-Aware. I installed Webroot Spysweeper again. PC magazines conclusions are the same (although they give the program a little higher rating). I think this program gets a high rating here because of a Microsoft "magic". Microsoft is a very big and serious company and has therefore the right "image" and authority.
Björn Lundahl, Göteborg, Sweden

East reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Jul 23, 2005

esh3:
People, people, yourself. Surely you don't think this is the ONLY program you should run? There is no need to PAY for anything. This is a great program and I would not be without it, however I do not use it as a stand alone. Keep running your ad-aware, spybot and all your "free" utilities. But for those who 'forget' to do this for weeks on end at least do yourself a favor and schedule this to run a few times a week. You people that put everything down amaze the hell out of me. Don't run it if you don't like it! If you don't see the advantages then you have a major problem.

esh3 reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Jul 19, 2005

People....People .......there will NEVER be a better then pay antispyware program. Save the time...save the trouble....spend 20 bucks and get Counterspy. The people at Sunbelt Software NEVER sleep with the enemy!

http://sunbeltblog.blogs...ispyware-coalition.html

twosheds reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Jul 19, 2005

gkar, spywareblaster is commercial.

gkar reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Jul 19, 2005

Please note folks, this program does not block or affect TRACKING COOKIES. Microsoft doesn't consider them spyware. Use Spywareblaster (free/donation ware) to block a long list of tracking cookie sites. I tried M/S Antispyware and didn't care much for it, but it is good as part of an overall Freeware defense strategy when used with Spywareblaster, Adaware and Spybot. ****To the guy above, I'm using it and it is FREE!!! You can donate to them if you like...verify before you make any claims please... http://javacoolsoftware.com/spywareblaster.html free for personal or educational use****

Adrian79 reviewed v1.0.615 Beta on Jul 19, 2005

great as always...thanks giant!!

kmleow reviewed v1.0.614 Beta on Jul 12, 2005

Quote from CNET:

"Microsoft is facing heat over its recent decision to downgrade the threat level for the same adware, now known as Claria. The beta version of Microsoft AntiSpyware previously recommended that users quarantine several products from Claria. The Microsoft product still detects the Claria software, but no longer recommends removal."

arossetti reviewed v1.0.614 Beta on Jun 26, 2005

New build constantly tries to update definitions from 5725 to 5729. Every check for updates results in the update. Bet we'll see another new build very shortly.

gcbetaman reviewed v1.0.614 Beta on Jun 25, 2005

If you use shortcut keys to launch apps, expect to wait five to seven seconds to see your app come up. Disable MS Anti-Spy's security agent, and everything goes back to normal. Strangely, the security agent (real-time protection) does not affect launching of the same apps from the icons that harbor the shortcut keys.

SemiColon1996 reviewed v1.0.614 Beta on Jun 25, 2005

This new build fixed the problem that I had yesterday (the same as Adrian79) ... couldn't get it to update at home or at work. This new build updated with no problem. I like this so far -- although I still don't see any discernable difference between it and the Giant yet.

deadmonkey reviewed v1.0.614 Beta on Jun 25, 2005

Adrian79: All versions I downloaded have been the correct version. Perhaps you have some cache problems with a [transparent] proxy?

Excellent program although I can't really see what MS has changed to the program other than removing a few features and changing "Giant Software" to "Microsoft" ;)

Adrian79 reviewed v1.0.614 Beta on Jun 25, 2005

2 days ago, they released a so-called update, i went to MS website to download it, ...it was still the OLD BUILD!! 509!! hello??? then i come back here to betanews to download it...it was still the OLD build again..LMFAO, let's see if this time they get there crap straight..brb

-edit, had to clear browser cache and ipconfig/ release- renew from cmd prompt..then it downloaded the updated build :)

ModderXManiac reviewed v1.0.614 Beta on Jun 25, 2005

A new build in two days??

Would someone care to tell us the changes/fixes?

Anyway, I'm quite satisfied with this program, tho Microsoft only did half the work in the development of this program.

The funny thing is that the main program executable is still GIANTAntiSpywareMain.EXE, meh.

neogator reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 25, 2005

Build 614 is out now.

Domingo reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

For a freebie from Microsoft, this is a good program. Yes, it's still just a tweaked Giant AntiVirus (your registry still references everything as Giant) but it works really well. since I got it, it's found several items AdAware missed.
I like AdAware's interface a little more, but there's nothing really wrong with this one.

acascianelli reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

I'm not a fan of Microsoft, but I do like the idea that Microsoft is coming out with its own anti-spyware and Anti-virus. Their the ones who can best maintain their crappy code.

BTW, this program works great. When the final release comes out I will probobly replace Adaware and Spybot on my system.

majiklantrn reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

Great Product.. To the people that downloaded the new version of Betanews, and their version and expiration didn't change, download it from MS. That will update the version number and the expiration date to 12/31/2005.

-majik

flipflipsen reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

Hello, I installed the new Betaverversion over the old one, and I had still the version number of the old version.
Then I uninstalled Antispyware, and installed the new one and still got the old version number.

Furthermore, I have to say, tha the program is very good in my opinion.

bakura reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

I'm giving it a 5 based on the previous version. I installed this on a computer that has never had it installed and it displays the old version number in the About screen.

I also updated two machines that had the older version installed and the version number did not change.

I assume that I have the old version on all three machines still even though I installed the new file.

Smrtazz77 reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

I had the same experience as Zimu installed without a hitch with some extra added features. I higly recommended even if not a fan of MS.

zimu reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

update worked fine, even shows the correct version which some claim was an issue. Didn't even uninstall the old one, just installed this one on top of the other.

Expiry date of this one is December 31st 2005, so you have a while to go. the July one was for the previous version.

PUC_Snakeman reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

Works like a charm most of the time, except one bug and fix I found...

BUG (and fix):
To anyone getting the error where you click "Real-time Protection" and it says 18 agents running or 100 checkpoints active, but in reality doesn't show them properly or shows them disabled.... This is a bug with the Visual Basic dll's. Apparently, this program requires the latest/greatest VB6 runtime, but the installer doesn't check/install it.

So, the solution is to first close Microsoft Antispyware, then download and install Visual Basic 6.0 SP6 Run-Time Redistributable Pack from Microsoft... available by searching for "vbrun60sp6.exe" or by visiting --- HERE (Download at Microsoft) --- Then, when you power up Antispyware, it should show 59 checkpoints all on duty, and you should be able to actually SEE them, visible and enabled.

Good luck, and enjoy

Adrian79 reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 24, 2005

dont bother downloading this from MS or betanews...they are only offering old build..even though it says it's updated lol!! duhhh i hate dumb people

esh3 reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

Very nice.....but ZeroSpyware 2005 is the way to go!

dougau reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

I like it, but this version still expires July 31st so they must be planning to charge for it soon.

Tokar reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

Come on microsoft! Re-implement the SECURE FILE SHREDDER and SYSTEM INNOCULATION from GIANT's product!

GoodThings2Life reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

I like it... nice interface, albeit slightly sluggish at times (a beta quirk, no doubt)... and it detects a LOT of things that the competition doesn't. Of course, like the competition, it misses a lot of things yet too.

Until it's final, and probably then too, I'll stick with running a combination of tools including Ad-Aware, SpyBot, and Antispyware. Even so, this is still an excellent product.

Bug(.)(.)Eyes reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

Straight from the website.

In this second beta refresh (Build 1.0.613), we’ve made other enhancements to the detection and removal capabilities, including improved Winsock LSP removal capabilities and support for long descriptions of categorized software. In addition, we have also extended the Windows AntiSpyware beta expiration date to December 31, 2005.

Notpad.exe is a known trojan, and this anti-spyware, as well as any other on the market, scans by filename, or registry key entry, or by any of other definitions.

It's a definition based scan, what do you expect?

As for the '5' rating, it's super easy to install, configure, and scan with. It protects you fairly well by default from getting any additional spyware/malware on your PC. It still requires some user knowledge to pick allow/do not allow, etc.. But I can accept that.

Bug

waynebike reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

This program works OK. Its better than nothing but it still needs work.

And for those of you who complain about not having a changelog, if you know where to look on microsofts site, here is the closest thing to a changelog:

"Released on June 23, 2005, the beta update (Build 1.0.613) includes a number of enhancements to the detection and removal functionality, based on the feedback that Microsoft has received to date. It also extends the expiration date of the beta to December 31, 2005."

tom3311 reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

It appears to me that Betanews has become a forum for a lot of snotty nose teenagers to sound cool by blasting the companies that produce these betas...Microsoft in this case. If you want to complain about software creators, go somewhere else.

The intent of betanews is for all of us "testers" to provide feedback on how well or poorly the software works. This is not a social forum for slamming the authors, nor each other. I felt I needed to speak up, as I am really tired of the juvenile comments that seem to have replaced the intelligent reviews of the past. Grow up, folks!

NOW... my review... I find the MS (Giant) Antispyware to work very well. With it's daily updates, it is pushing other antispyware developers (Spybot comes to mind) to do the same. This, in itself, is of great value! MS Antispyware works equally well as Spybot and other software. Since installing the initial and 1st update of this program my Spybot (v1.4) has not found any spy software on my PC (and others I've also installed this software on in my consulting business). So...it works, the price is right. Well worth the install!

And| reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

Why is it so, that Microsoft never seem to provide a changelog?

About the "new" MSN 0813 build, i wrote a mail to the danish department for MSN, and they didnt even understand the word "changelog". It's rediculous.

jordenpro reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

It's called leave trojan detection to a antivirus company that can handle the situation properly. Notpad.exe is a named used for a trojan, however what if someone is smart enough to take the same virus and name it nodpad1.exe? Well then its not detected by MS ANTI-SPYWARE. Not to mention the file you created is empty, my point is the detection rate this product is giving is false, as what it detects as a trojan, is a perfectly clean file, empty file. This type of false positive would cause people to format their PC and waste hours in incident handling!

Earlier Post:
LOL @ this product.

create a file in c:\windows\system32 and name the file, notpad.exe

run a scan with this program, and boom not that blank file you created is no a backdoor. LOL. this is the type of detection results I look for in a product(syke). This would explain why this program detects soo much more than the other vendors.

::walks away::

dzjepp reviewed v1.0.613 Beta on Jun 23, 2005

FYI

We know, Microsoft bought Giant Co. and they are releasing the product under the MS label now. It's actually good news, because the product will be free when it launches out of the beta state sometime later down the road.

Aaroncd reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Jun 17, 2005

FYI
Microsoft did not actually write this program.
Giant Company did. Here is a link
http://www.giantcompany.com/p_antispyware.htm

imanino reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Jun 13, 2005

For Microsoft this is good. I was terrified of the thought of Microsoft getting into the computer security business but they did a decent job hijacking Giant here. One irritating bug is that upon start up, there is a bug in the code that causes Gcas server holder to pop up with an interface selection menu that is extremely cryptic. This did not appear until the last build. It appears that a version of the program is designed to have administrators have more control over the configuration of the interface, but some of the features mistakenly get activated in the more general beta version and few users will understand the little menu or what's happening. The pop-up can be quite persistent as well, sometimes necessitating manual exit. All in all, true beta worth building on.

mzhao reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Jun 1, 2005

I must admit, Microsoft did something right with acquiring GIANT and developing this program. The interface is well designed and is friendly enough for even most "clueless" home users to understand.

Scanning was quick overall, and AntiSpyware offers some useful extras, such as real-time protection and a viewer for hidden or hard-to-locate parts of the system.

The interface resembles Sunbelt's CounterSpy so much it's scary. I think that they use the same or similar scanning engine(s). Sunbelt says to uninstall Microsoft AntiSpyware before installing CounterSpy, so they could be interrelated somehow.

Overall, this is a great product, deserving of a high rating. If you can't afford CounterSpy or somehow have a problem with Ad-Aware/Spybot/etc., Microsoft AntiSpyware is the one to look to.

tcpaulh reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on May 30, 2005

Great software but it's another example of code that doesn't work well if you move the windows taskbar to the left of the screen. The alert dialogs just scroll all the way up and off the screen as they have nothing to anchor to.

Nikkie reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on May 19, 2005

Works for me . No problems here . if you have problems running this on older computers than get spybot .

other than that , this is a keeper ..

Jean-Luc Picard reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on May 15, 2005

I like this program. It's fast and finds many spyware.

Mirrebex reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on May 11, 2005

- I guess microsoft surprised everyone with this program, it actually removes spywares from your PC.
Nice Interface, real-time protection and up-to-date spyware definitions make this spyware fighting tool one of the best ones in the internet today!
let´s just wait for the final version...

Drama reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Apr 7, 2005

Really good anti-spyware program. Microsoft isn't always the evil giant.

DCohen726 reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Apr 2, 2005

I hate to say it, this Microsoft Program is actually...........good. Shocking eh? The detection and removal process is great and easy. It finds alot of things other programs haven't. The only negative is a slow computer after a scan.

J_s_u reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Mar 30, 2005

I tried this on the recommendation of a friend and after installing and disabling all the real time protection and spynet and automatic detection crap I ran a scan, it was much faster compared to other programs such as Spybot Search and Destroy, Adaware and Spyware Sweeper and picked up some adware that none of them detected. I am impressed with this program. A nice job from MS.

Athena reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Mar 1, 2005

positively surprised by this software, i tried not to take the "m$ sux anyway" attitude you may see in some reviews (mastergeese it's not p2p only software that are detected but all remote control software aswell, like dameware, but by default the spyware will ignore them, so it's for info but no action will be taken on them. Next time try to give a details of what you say, not only 10%)

I don't use the real time protection, it has found some items ad aware didn't find, and vice versa so I use them both. I found it a bit slow overall on the scanning but again, as I don't know the scan method difference with ad or spybot, I can't judge.

still a usefull one,.

stevetures reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 27, 2005

Scratch that... the "Firefox as spyware" bit was fake. Now Im the noob.

Good software. I'll take some false positives as a sign of a good deep scan. Tends to work w/o resorting to safe mode too.

Tenoq reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 21, 2005

Slim Shady has a point in that this software is far more bloated and sluggish than any other on the market, but it does do a worthwhile job. It's picked up things SpySweeper, Adaware, Spybot and PestPatrol have missed... but in turn, the others have done likewise after a MS scan.

Shame they don't start learning from each other, and introduce programs that cover all bases! But it does have potential. Still using the Giant version for 9x machines.

wat0114 reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 18, 2005

Missed junk that Webroot's Spysweeper picked up. Otherwise, it looks like a product with a ton of potential.

LordJezo reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 18, 2005

Seems like slimshady165000 is a troll.

Besides that, this product is actually really good. Like others have said no one product gets rid of all adware and spyware but this one picks up things the others do not.

Even though MS bundling this with Windows might hurt the other companies that do this sort of thing it's a needed step. Not everyone knows to go out and download adaware or spybot and with built in protection perhaps less people will unknowingly be infected with junk.

slimshady165000 reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 18, 2005

crap and more crap....the equivalent of Norton, which turned into a bloated piece of dog poo

DiGiTaLFX reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 18, 2005

Brilliant. Does the job well, and from a company that I trust to put things onto my computer. Would be nice if could be configured to display more confirmation/notification pop-up things, such as when startup registry entries are removed etc.

Also if MS do release some form of Anti-Virus, which (hopefully!) is free, I would really like to see the two completly integrated. As far as I'm concerned, both these tasks should be run together (so I don't have to run two scans each time I perform maintenence). Scheduling the things for 2AM each day is pointless as my comp is off then. And usually whenever it's on I want to use it and not watch it do things.

Mark Gillespie reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 18, 2005

Found lots of spyware that other high profile scanners missed, and got rid of them well.

Reccomended...

guitardave78 reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 18, 2005

Have to say i love this. Not a huge MS fan, but the news that this will remain free helps!.
Doesn't find everything, but neither does spybot or adaware. But with the resident protection running I do seem to be getting a lot less spyware when I run the others! Adaware tends to get a bit panicky about cookies.
Use this as part of your defense with spybot, adaware and spyblaster and you are on to a winner!!

dougau reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

First of all this does expire, under the “About” menu it says:

Microsoft AntiSpyware Version: 1.0.509
This version expires on: 7/31/2005

Any software that is set to expire would automatically lose one star in my book. However seeing hackers have already attacked the first version of this program it is understandable why Microsoft would want to ensure everyone keeps current, so I'll give that star back.

Second of all some people seem to be running it down just cause its from Microsoft, I think its a good program and if nothing else will help keep Spybot Search & Destroy and Ad-Aware free, and is best used along with them.

PC Rat reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

"No expiration on this version?"

Yeah, was wondering ~that~ too !

Guess we'll find out this summer when the beta is due to expire.

The DataRat

Arnvid reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

First attitude was that when MS is not capable to keep their IE spy/script free, then how would they be able to create a software doing what one of MS main software is not able to do - keeping hazardous spyware away.

Scanning my system AS found two minor problems - that is after using Ad-aware and Spyboot.

Then, MS would focus on an add-on software for security compared to rewrite major parts of their main programs against spyware. I give 1 point for trying, and 2 points for the two issues it found. So yes - I would love if MS did something great, but this so far seem like a old warfare, like fighting WW2 with the intentions of WW1.

So I give it a three star, hoping it will be the best tool in the world. MS got a good staff; let us wish them the best results!!!

bobad reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

Works well, finds spyware that both SpyBot and Ad-Aware miss. It has a fast scanner, a nice GUI, is flexible, with plenty of options and features for novices and experts. What's not to like about it? I see a lot of people are giving this program a low rating for no other reason than it's now a "M$" product. That's just childish and silly. I think most people who give it a fair trial will like it.

surfbum4fun reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

micro$oft antispyware found zero questionable files.adaware-se found 23 questionable files.... good job !! MS. i give it a 2 for effort.

zridling reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

Works great, works fast, works thoroughly. A-plus!

legabier reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

No expiration on this version?

PhrostByte reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

But does Kazaa Lite contain spyware? :\

gobrian89 reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

I love it. Much better than Ad-aware. I had a few problems with the real time protection part of the program, but it probably will be fixed momentarily. But besides that best program out there in my opinion.

aerthling reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

tal3152: because flashget contains adware.

I don't want to like it, but I do.

tal3152 reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

It's a good program, but why every P2P program like FlashGet considers as spyware and removes them. Even I put FlasfGet as a program that should not be remove it asked me to remove it each scan. I'll remain with Spy Sweeper.

mastergeese reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

considers all p2p softwares as spywares and removes them.
so I quit! pityfull...

Pixelsmack reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

Wow, about time. I love spybot, but MS is on a roll here. Updated IE6 security functions and popup blocker really do their job and now this.

It really works and is very thourough. I love all the control they give you and it presents it in an easy to digest fashion.

Having it auto update and actually running all it's protections constantly is nice too.

It is also nice to have some anti-spyware that finally is from the same makers of the operating system. Hopefully ensuring better integration and less "buggy" behavior. Plus "they" know exactly where to look better than the other guys, one would hope. Since it's their own operating system.

That is the key I think for this tool. Seemless and robust integration with Windows.

So far, it gets my top vote.

Now, can we please get an integrated download manager and TAB browsing! ;)

Pipewrench reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

Its NOT Beta 2.

It still says Beta 1 during the install and their website says Beta 1.

It's just an updated version of Beta 1.

It still works great however :)

dannysalerno7 reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

Bloated or not I think it's great and Microsoft is going in the right direction Symantc watch out because since Microsoft boought out that Antivirus Company Sybari or whatever its name was They're on the prowl for the antivirus software industry it's only a matter of time folks =)

alberta expediter reviewed v1.0.509 Beta 1 on Feb 17, 2005

Someone mentioned that it takes twice as long as Spybot. Well the simple answer to this is that Spybot does'nt scan your whole HD.

I have to agree that it is bloated, but like almost any other MS software, it will only grow in bloat.

mcm reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Feb 16, 2005

Good news, Microsoft Antispyware will remain free.
http://www.windowsitpro....icleID/45430/45430.html

Cool-Gui reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Feb 15, 2005

Seems pretty good -- a little high on the resource usage, but I'm guessing it's required for this level of monitoring. By the way, asellus, I wouldn't call it a new front... they bought Giant software, so they can keep the name as long as they want I guess. :)

windowsxphome2005 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Feb 2, 2005

This program is amazing!

BUT.... Why can't it remove tracing cookies?

PROS:
-Very versatile
-effective
-very adaptive

CONS:
-can't remove tracing cookies
-never performs a scheduled scan

H_TeXMeX_H reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Feb 1, 2005

Wow, mcm now that is surprising, just for that I raise my rating to a 4 out of 5, for an unexpected gesture of kindness from a normally unkind and ruthless Bill Gates.

However, this program missed several spyware and adware items including the following:

- Adware: ShopAtHomeSelect
- Adware: Morpheus Adware
- Trojan Horse: Trojan-Backdoor-Kyrdor
- System Monitor: Visual Log
- Keylogger: Windows Keylogger

I ran Microsoft Antispyware, and it showed none of these things, then I ran Webroot Spy Sweeper and it found the above mentioned items.
Now, that last one kinda make you wonder, does Microsoft have anything to do with Windows Keylogger ? Hmm ...

Webroot Spy Sweeper site (shareware with free 30 day trial) :
http://www.webroot.com/downloads/

snafu4u reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 21, 2005

What's Good:

-Real time protection
-Automatic updates
-Pretty interface to 'dumb' people

What's Not:

-Painfully slow when running a FULL system scan. (It takes twice as long as spybot.)
-Completely ignores Firefox and any cookies it has. (Again, spybot found them.)
-Way to boaty, epecially the realtime protection.

Maybe the final release will be better, but for know stick with what you got.

asellus reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 21, 2005

Basically just a new front for Giant Anti-Spyware solution (for god-sake change the executable file from GIANTAntiSpywareMain.exe to something else). But GIANT is an award-winning product (better than Spybot or Ad-Aware) so I guess getting a copy of this for free is a steal.

The real-time protection seems to make my comp sluggish. But it does detect some so-called harmful cookies/files that are not detected by Ad-Aware SE and Spybot.

So, 4 out of 5.
Free, unlike the TDS-3 recommended by someone below this review.

jordenpro reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 17, 2005

M$ anti-spyware, 2 thumbs down. They don’t use signatured based detection on certain levels. For example, create a file called NOTPAD.EXE and save it in c:\windows\system32. Run a scan with M$ Anti-Spyware and it will detect that blank harmless file as a Trojan horse virus. It’s no wonder their detection rate is beating AdAware and Spybot, detecting useless files harmless. That type of false detection would cause some nerds to format your PC.

However, it does have some nice features! I think I like m multi layed protection, rather than 1 new program in BETA. We’ll see how it goes down the road…

TC17 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 12, 2005

Just so you know, the "erase tracks" option of this program does not actually erase them, it just deletes them. Meaning anyone can use an undelete program to find them. A good erase program would overwrite the file, not just delete it.

Microsoft also bought out the software from "Giant Antispyware", like they buy everyone else out.

tenortub reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 11, 2005

I rate this Product top of the heap. Microsoft really hit a home run on this one. I have used Spy Sweeper and Ad-Aware Personal in the past, also Hijack this, but it's difficult. Spy Sweeper found some spyware but could not delete it all. In this regard, Ad-Aware Personal was more successful, deleting Elite Bar completely, I thought. After running Microsoft's Anti-Spyware, it found and deleted 3 more occurrences of Elite Bar. This is after Spy Sweeper and Ad-Aware found nothing. I believe this product is easily the best thought out, comprehensive and complete, by far the best I have seen.

malcolmsuperstar reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 11, 2005

whenever you see all yellow bars and unbeleivable ratings, you know its rig by those who have no clue in beta testing or its the developers who are boosting their ratings under alias names. Those who takes beta testing seriously can tell you that everyone as a different opinion and diffirent score ratings, even if it was the best program, this program sux and as sucked for a long time. This software is formerly Giant

do not get this version as it is full f crap and is not stable for xp.

it takes along time to kill the program and slow start up under process.

TDS-3 is the best anti-trojan and anti-spyware remover and program

Td3 is rated 10 stars by all Ip providers by Bell, Shaw, Rogers, Verizon, At&T and is use by their server It proffesionals. heres the link and see for yourself

http://tds.diamondcs.com.au/

and always use the best anti-virus like AVG-7 or Avast 4.5 for any files you download off any peer to peer.

a great pirate version of Kazaa lite and extremely fast use kazaa lite ressurection link below

http://filesharingdownlo...p2pclients/KLR0076E.exe

CeeJay reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 8, 2005

I give this a full thumbs up. Easy to use, effective, clean, and I like the requests to approve use of new programs downloaded. I should think that this should stay free and is included in all the basic packages from MS.

Mike162005 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 8, 2005

Oh my, this is the best Anti Spyware out there! I have Ad-Aware & Spybot, but this found 16 more spyware (200 files) infected! I love that it does not take up many resources, very easy to use, and updates regularly! In addition, this scan digs deep!

This will get a 5!

davnan356 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 8, 2005

Today i installed and ran Msft's spyware. It found no intruders on my computer. I then installed and ran Spybot. It found and removed 84 intruders on my computer.
Thanks David

krgood reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 7, 2005

This works great! I had a hijacked IE and could not find the malware files. Ad-aware scan found nothing, then scanned with the MS product and it found the hi-jack and 3 other "secret" malware installs and took them out, no problem. Now IE works as it should. It can only get better!!!

petgamer reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 7, 2005

I was a little skeptical about downloading something made by Microsoft from their reputation but this program is outstanding. I routinely use Ad-Aware and Spybot. I knew I still had spyware because a pop-up window would come up and those 2 programs did not find anything. After running Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware it found 17 things that the other 2 programs did not find. Also, it has real-time protection and can clear out your tracks. It provides a browser hi-jack restore tool (if IE was hijacked), startup programs, and more. It is an excellent program. It runs smoothly for a BETA and doesn't use many resources. Highly recommended!

BIL reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 7, 2005

I routinely run Adaware, Spybot, and AVG. I have run Antispy 6 times and it found 4 registry changes and spyware that the others missed. I have to say that it is very good. Hopefully it will become even better. Two concerns are is MS using it to track us and are they trying to make it a subscription pay as you go application. With all the security problems inherent in MS products they really need to supply it for free.

huppel reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 7, 2005

Looks promissing but it has still some bugs.
The advanced tools / Tracks eraser does not clean everything:
- Recycle Bin is not emptied.
- Windows temp-files are not wiped.
- Etc

I am sure that it will become OK, but due to the above, I only give it a 2 for now.

bradingram reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 7, 2005

d/l tried it - crashed the pc (xp pro sp2)
tried it again - crashed the pc again
tried it for 3rd time - froze the k/brd & screen - manual reboot.

checked the direcotory size 16meg !!!
uninstalled it
cleaned the registry & left over files

went to the pub

spiked reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 7, 2005

I was really skeptical that I would like this better than Spybot, but I do. The UI is cleaner without sacrificing functionality, and it seems pretty effective overall compared to Ad-Aware and Spybot. So far, I've tried it on two very different systems used by very different people, and it's obvious that it's not perfect. Some people would defend that by pointing out that it's beta, but realistically there will never be a truly perfect version of anybody's anti-spyware (nor anybody's anti-virus).

What I do worry about is that Microsoft might get stuck in a political situation where they can't label a competitor's product as spyware even if it behaves just as badly as most spyware. The example that comes to my mind is the free version of Real Player. Today's version 10.5 isn't quite as bad as the 7.0 thru 9.0 releases, but it still takes over a system more than it needs to, largely by default and largely without making it clear to the user what it's really doing. Being a large high-profile company, Real has the resources to craft their EULA and Privacy Policy just right so that they can deny being spyware, but I think Joe Blow Anti-Spyware could easily get away with branding Real Player as malware of some sort. On the other hand, there's no chance that Microsoft could ever do the same without getting accused of abusing monopoly power.

Bh420 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 7, 2005

It actually works pretty damn good... didnt have any real spyware on my system to test that part of it but it find a few things cookies etc.. and for those of you who would rather bash MS then actually try it you should have your betanews accounts suspended for obviously not following directions you are supposed to review stuff you have tried not bash the author because you dont like them. bash me for saying it all you want because I know you will but until you can write your own software and post it on betanews for comments keep your trap shut if you don't like the company.

gigsvoo reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 7, 2005

Generally is ok, there are a few bugs throughout the application.

tobashadow reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Im not on Microsoft's can't beatem buyem way of doing things but atleast they chose a good company.

Work's great here and found alot of crap the others haven't

Dwarden reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Way too many false positives ...
Windows where it warn me about ActiveX changes floating on speed 50 pixels seconds accross whole screen , no chance to be able read it ...

norky reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

px208, sunbelt's was just a rebranded giant app. that's why the ui is the same. check out sunbelts and giants anti spam apps too.

px208 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

This is a BLATANT ripoff of Sunbelt Sofware's Counterspy program. I understand that Sunbelt uses Giant's engine, but damn... the UI is EXACTLY the same.

georgeyklee reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

There's a 206 or 207 time limit trial on this software.

Overall, the software is GREAT!

guevara reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Hmm, Giant now Microsoft.
Same program - but it works nice.
But there are still use for Spybot and all the rest.
But it is nice that microsoft help's fighting spyware, for free.
Thump's up
5 stars

ds0934 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

fair_is_fair makes a pretty boneheaded comment (above). MS didn't make this at all. Not even close. I guess you didn't read any news lately, such as MS buying the product from Giant Software. Nor that of Sunbelt making a feeble attempt to block the purchase. MS doesn't make most of their add-on stuff, they acquire it and adapt it.

AnthonyB reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

As a user of Ad-Aware Pro and SpyBot S&D this offering from Microsoft (previously Giant software) is excellent and well worth using.

Also includes Advanced Tools for privacy such as the Tracks Eraser (for clearing cookies, temp internet files, MRU lists, etc.)

justinb reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

verrrry good program here. it works so much better than spybot / adaware. just to test it, i tried it on a school computer (which is infested with popups all the time). spybot always finds some, 'removes them, and upon restarting and scanning again, a few are back. same with adaware..

this program found nearly 2x as many items, and it removed them all :) even if it was origionally created by a different company, it's the best, and that is what matters.

Ratchet reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

The Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware Is A Fab Great Software, No Problems Installing it, Cant wait Till its Offically Available (Not in Beta)

fair_is_fair reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

I agree with Bleh.
Microsoft cannot compete with other software makers. Sure, the basic windows operating system is good. Most of the addons are sh*t. Media Player, Internet Explorer, Outlook Express, and Windows firewall are all inferior products and I'm just naming a few. You can download any number of alternates for free that do a better job. Why anyone would trust Microsoft with real security is nuts. If MS were smarter, they would contract out this spyware program and others instead of messing with it themselves. Its all to do with domination and power. You can be sure I will not install this program. Good luck MS!

Satz reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Nice app. It even noticed I had WinPcap installed(yet considered it minimal) which it is since I installed it.

It did add this to my HKLM\Run though >:(

gcasServ -
"C:\Program Files\MS AntiSpyware\gcasServ.exe"

I see no need to have it running on my system.

Cheers,

bleh427 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

This is the same program as Giant AntiSpyware. So much for "innovation". And by the time they are done with it it'll have product activation, mess up all other free anti-spyware scanners, and crash to desktop whenever you do something intelligent.

It gets a 3 since it works, but thats only because it worked before they bought it out.

baracudda reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

I too have been using Spybot as well as Ad-aware. M/S anti-spyware found 20 infected files for me.................thank you

SuperSpiker reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

This software is fantastic! However I wont be uninstalling Spybot or Ad-aware. Experts say the best protection against spyware is "layered protection" therefore I am adding this program to my anti-spyware arsenal.

Like some of the other reviewers mention this does catch spyware that the other software missed and also gives you the option to join a community to fight new spyware quickly.

Wether or not your a fan of Microsoft or not get this software because I know your not a fan of spyware and this software will help you to get rid of it.

sirhardi reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Top notch...as the others said GIANT did a great job, best one out there, which also removes MRU's and temop stuff
Question does it detect and remove CoolWeb, i know Spysweeper just integrated the removal for that nasty one.
Anybody know if M$ will charge for this version now ?
Either way AWSOME tool good move M$

chimpypimpy reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Giant AS was excellent so it should come as no surprise that Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware is top notch.

My only complaint... it expires July 31, 2005.

Ziad270 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Simply what i was waiting for.
Amazing...clean. It seems like if we have now a really good and fix solutions for the Spyware Problem.Everythings seems to be tested (Hosts, LSP,startup,redir,...)

(Adware is good...but...6 no more supported...so new version needed...u have to explain that to people who ask...idem for Spybot S&D...they did good job...but wasnt that great for unaverted users...and...winsock was so good checked...).

Ziad O'Hanlon

deviantATTILA reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

I'm satisfied with this, I've been using Ad-Aware, Spybot, and SpywareBlaster. After running this, it picked up some things that neither of the other scanners noticed. Some were low risk factors, but never the less, this seemed to be more thorough. And this time, I don't mind its integration into Windows as long as it's keeping me safe and doesn't adversely affect performance.

Natrunner reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Excellent. Smooth install. Caught and cleaned spyware that adaware didn't catch. I would recommend it.

RWW reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Have been following this and I am also impressed. From what I have experienced I would imagine AdAware and Spybot will be taken off my machine. They have served well but I always jump at the chance to eliminate a program when possible.

Eric20 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Excellent! I've used Spyboy - Search and Destroy, Adaware, and a couple of others that I cannot remember the names to. This one definatly is the best i've used yet.. It works perfectly, and found stuff the others have'nt. I highly recommend it!

yohimbe9 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Works great! Quick easy scan with great information about what was found. I like the fact that it rates your results, hopefully those will continue to be good. I'm in a corporate environment with a SUS so its telling me that I don't have automatic updates turned on but that's not too big a deal.

Also, you don't need to validate your copy of Windows, you can choose No and proceed right to download.

And right now this product is free and hopefully will be in the future. Rate the product on what it is now, please.

ogar reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Would have given it a 5 but it does not scan cokkies in 3rd Party Browsers. I do not use Internet explorer so the beta might not can cokkies or trackers at all.

jacjan reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

This is actually a piece of software from Microsoft that I`m impressed with, but ofcourse, it`s not made by MS themselves. This is just a rebranded version of Giant antispyware, wich Microsoft bought.
They have also bought a antivirus company, Gecad or something like that, so antivirus from Ms will soon come I think.

krakokainer reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Not bad. Free only for some time while we
guinea pigs beta test it for micro$oft.

This should continue as a free download
courtesy of Bill Gate$.

But no, why give it away if your only purpose in life is to make a dollar and a penny off of this world?

Pipewrench reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

The Best!!!!

I have used Lavasoft Adaware, Spybot Search and Destroy, SpywareBlaster, and HiJack this.

This beats them all. It looks nice and the user interface is easy to read and understand. I like the fact that it will auto update and also do scheduled scans.

Now we just need MS to buy an Antivirus company :)

Cheers
Pipewrench

computershack reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Does what it says on the tin.

Requires you to validate your Windows install in order to get it.

Brian49 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Impressive.

rejected reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

I'm impressed.

bourgeoisdude reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Oh my God. This thing rocks. Hate MS all you want, this thing rocks. Finds everything, no problems, best of all, removing items that are tied to "winsocks" does not make your winsocks corrupt. This'll be great if home users will have access to it. In your face, ya !@#$% spyware authors!!!

musickevin reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

I really liked this program. I use Ad-Aware SE and Spybot simultaneously and I STILL had scans produce results (even without doing the thorough scan). Additionally, this beta found a keylogger in my Magix Movie Edit Pro software! SB and AA didn't find that ever.

Another nice feature of this program is the Tracks Eraser (found under the menus at the top). IMHO, I can't wait to see the full release of this software. I've already gotten rid of "the other two".

cyberia reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Sometimes bigger is better. MS has the power to put as many people on this effort as it takes, and it shows, from the scanning speed to the look and feel.

Free for now, MS ASW detects more with much better descriptions of, and reccommendations for responses to what it detects than any other anti-spyware application that I know. It's fast, the real-time protection doesn't use much in the way of CPU cycles, and you can schedule updates and scanning for different times.

Oh, yeah, did I mention that (at least for now) it's free :-).

davygiven reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

A great tool. Tho I assume MS will add the full features from Giant whenever they release the full version, which will no doubt be a chargeable upgrade. As for those who are comparing it with Spybot S&D and Ad-Aware, catch yourselves on. Any spyware detection software with a fee will find things that those two miss. Good work Microsoft!!

sn0wflake reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Impressive.

guti reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Average user interface, slow operation, high detection ratio, very configurable.

IMHO, far superior than Spybot and Adware in the detection engine.

donpacman reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Nice.

gawd21 reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

I have been waiting for this. MS knows it's OS's better than anyone, who else to make the best program for it? For being the first beta public release this is great (even if I haven't had any spy/ad ware in a long time, other than tracking cookies). I was kind of wandering if it gets teh MSN spy/ad ware. If anyone has MSN and the junk that comes with it post here and let me know. BTW for those of you who have never used Giant AS. You will love this.It's G-AS

WebWarp reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Wow - Itz actually good !!

I was very possitive surpriced .. It even gives imformations about what the found spyware does - so you can read what harm it does - and nok just delete - but also wuarantien .. Its really great despite its beta...

deadmonkey reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

@httpd.confused: You have no evidence to prove that Microsoft will charge for this software. Only rumors on the internet. Chances are high it won't be free however it would be a huge PR boost to Microsoft if they did give it away free so I wouldn't totally rule it out.

As for the application. I liked it when it was GIANT AntiSpyware and I still like it now it is Microsoft AntiSpyware. It has, according to recent tests, the best detection record and also has some nice little extra features. Sadly Microsoft have removed some of the additional features in this beta. I hope these featuers return in the final version as they were very handy.

bobad reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Not bad! Scan speed is a bit slow. Good options. Real-time protection doesn't seem to be too heavy. It finds so much stuff, and has so many choices that it could be a pain for nOOb's with lots of spyware. This program could be another source of controversy for MS, or it could be a very good opportunity for good will and help rehabilitate their reputation. (keeping it FREEEEE would go a long way toward this!) We'll have to wait and see which way MS goes!

RaveN-FH- reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

there's some comical stuff like "Microsoft.AntiSpyware.ShellExecuteHook.1" being listed as "Unknown" (instead of "Safe") and some less comical stuff like Flashget being a false-positive.

"tracks eraser" is an interesting option for those truly paranoid folks.

All in all it looks like a good start though.

dalmiroy2k reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Not bad at all.
Yes, It does detects P2P soft and MSN plus as low level spyware, but the default settings for them is "ignore", so newbies won't delete them.
It also detected malware that spybot and ad-aware didn't.
On the other hand, the program itself asks so many questions unlike ad-aware, so this may be a problem for amateur users...

arossetti reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Not bad, but seems a bit overly sensitive. ID'd RealVNC and WinPcap as potential spyware because they can be used for malicious purposes on a compromoised machine. Doesn't that apply to Internet Explorer itself though?

DarkHound reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Well it's clean and fast, but it did have some false positives. The good thing is that it lets you review the things it caught to verify. It would have gotten a 5 if it weren't for the false positives.

False positives include:
Cat.exe (dos version of cat in *nix) - Detected as porn dialer.

WinPCap - Labeled as an enabler (Is installed for use with ethereal)

acascianelli reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

it found many false threats on my system. personally i dont care too much for it. ill stick with adaware and spybot. i do now like the fact that microsoft bought their way into the anti-spyware industry.

but id definetly use this on peoples computer i setup because it provides inept users with a single place to scan for and clean spyware. and it provides real-time protection with automatic updates.

lissack@lissack.com reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Finally a MS product that works well in its 1.0 release. (probably because they bought it rather than wrote it)

ReuvenNY reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

I am not a Microsoft fan either, just to the contrary. But this AntiSpyware seems to work fine. They must have bought it from some briliant developer...

httpd.confused reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

Give credit where it's due, OK? Microsoft simply used its deep pockets (once again) to buy Giant Software, which was already the most-effective spyware solution.

http://www.microsoft.com.../dec04/12-16GIANTPR.asp

Of course, even after doing the deepest scan available, I was greeted with this message:

"Microsoft AntiSpyware has detected no known spyware on your computer."

People who are careless and clueless may have a reason to run this, though.

I do find it ironic that Microsoft essentially created the spyware industry--by virtue of its utterly flawed Insecure Explorer product--and now stands to make money on those same flaws. Seems like a conflict of interest to me. (And yes, sorry to break it to you all, but future versions of this product will NOT be freeware.)

* P.s. To goofballs who take issue with my statement above: This is what we masters of the language like to call an "opinion". Yes, Dictionary.com can help you here, but basically, opinions are what this site is about. Choke on it.

dreamz reviewed v1.0.501 Beta 1 on Jan 6, 2005

I'm not a Microsoft Fan, but this product is outstanding and was able to find and remove more malicious files than my favorite spyware killer, Spybot - Search & Destroy. Some times MS does make things right.