spyware/adware

I have spyware/adware on my computer that I am trying to get rid of. I also would like to switch from IE to Mozilla. Is is best to get my computer clean first of all spyware/adware before I download Mozilla? Also, which version of Mozilla should someone use that has basic to intermediate computer knowledge?

Thanks

 

Hi Jeane,

Definitely get rid of the spyware before installing a new browser. I would recommend using both AdAware and SpyBot. You may already have them installed.

When you last asked about Netscape 7.1, and Mozilla, I recommended Mozilla 1.6 as it was the last Final Release. However, Mozilla has just released Mozilla 1.7 Release Candidate 3, which is the last RC. The final Mozilla 1.7 is due out sometime next week, and if I were you I would wait for this release. It will replace Mozilla 1.4, as the most stable Mozilla Release. This will give you plenty of time to get your PC clean of varmits, worms, trojans, etc...

Ramona

 

Jeane,

(in addition to Ramona's reply,)
If you don't want to install AdAware or SpyBot as Ramona recommended (I also recommend them), I would suggest you to check out PestInfo, they have a very huge database on spyware/adware, also with information on how to detect and remove them individually.

 

I have finally gotten my computer clean of all adware/spyware! I now need a firewall and would like to download the free ZoneAlarm 5.0. Should this be done before downloading Mozilla? Also, I hear that ZoneAlarm 5.0 can cause problems with antivirus running because it now comes with AV -- I have Norton AV. Is this a good version to download, and should I do this first before installing Mozilla?

Thanks Ramona and all who reply. Your answers have provided me with tremendous help! You're fantastic!!

 

Jeane,

The AV comes with the $19.95 ZoneAlarm , and not the free version, so no problem there. If you are concerned, you might install ZoneAlarm 4.5 instead:

Free ZoneAlarm 4.5.594

Ramona