That's right, Abby. Ad-Aware gives one the ability to decide that certain “spyware” programs are okay and have the program leave them alone.

If you pay the $15 one-time license fee for Ad-Aware Pro, it also comes with Ad-Watch, a background process that monitors activity and shoots down any spyware before it can even be installed. I haven't poped for the license yet but I'm considering it.

I also use a personal firewall and a commercial anti-virus program. You'd be surprised how often people hit your computer just to see if you've left any openings.

      - Mark