Review of Two Security Microsoft Download Updates

(April 26, 2005)

1. Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT)

• An anti-virus program than can be used with other anti-virus programs on you PC
• For info: Google search and type Malicious Software Removal Tool
• Now on list of critical MS updates
• Checks WinXP for and helps remove specific prevalent virii/worms e.g. Berbew, Blaster, DoomJuice, Gaobot, Mydoom, Nachi, Sasser, and Zindos.  then displays a list with results
• Updated version second Tuesday of each month
• Available via Windows Update, and the Microsoft Download Center
• May get the latest version through Windows Update; can download manually
• You can set the Automatic Updates feature
• Can run more than once/mo. at the Download Center

2. MS AntiSpyware

• Still a Beta version as of this writing i.e. it is “experimental”
• MS recently bought Giant Company Software to use in Windows
• To download: http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx
• “Known spyware on your PC can be detected and removed.”
• Counteracts malware threats i.e. “guarding more than 50 ways Web sites and programs can put spyware on your PC”.
• Updates automatically downloaded
• Can be run at your convenience on demand or scheduled
• Can get programs back if inadvertently removed.
• Works in the background with minimal interruption
• Will restore Internet Explorer settings altered by Spyware including home page and default search engine
• Advertised to stay current re latest threats.