Viruses or spyware?

[Geek-Squad]

I have a question Is spyware More worst then a virus is? In my personal opnion I think viruses Damage System files And spyware Only Installs Stuff on your computer without your permission? Maybe Im wrong Can some Redirect me on which is worst?

Ps: I think this post belongs here.....

[deuces wild]

A single virus can kill your system.

Spyware will only slow your system down.

Virus's are definitely more dangerous.

Understanding that, both should be deleted from your system.

[ɹəuəllıʍ ʇɐb]

I agree with D.W. The first thing to do on a new system is to install anti-virus software; some viruses and or trojans can completely kill a Windows installation.

A good firewall also helps fending off any external intrusions.

Spyware and other malware may be less dangerous than viruses, but they may also damage your system, although it is not their primary intention. I remember that installing XP-SP2 onto spyware-infested systems could lead to irreparable damage.

Spyware comes in such diverse variations that most experienced Windows users have more than one anti-spyware software installed. But it is very important that only trusted anti-spyware systems are installed. These days spyware even comes in the disguise of anti-spyware.

(Unlike anti-spyware applications, there should be only one dedicated anti-virus program installed.)

[Scarecrow Man]

The answer to this question depends on you're point of view, and what you use your computer for.

A virus by definition is a file that can duplicate itself. It has malicious intents, and usually is used to destroy files, or disable a system completeley.

Spyware by definition, will track your internet usage, watch your keystrokes, record credit card and other sensitive information.

While both can do more than what I have described, it is up to you to decide which you think is worst.

[Kevin]

I completely agree with scarecrow man. A virus can destroy your computer, but depending on what you use your computer for, sypware can destroy your life. I've known a couple of people who have lost their credit, and had to file for bankruptcy because of spyware on their computer. Spyware can cause fraud/identity theft, and really turn your life upside down. I worry more about viruses that spyware though. My first bad experience with a computer was because of a virus. In my personal experience, i have never had to deal much with spyware (except of course the occasional removal of a couple of pieces spyware) It has not done much damage to me.

[Geek-Squad]

Thanks guys....Im going to make sure I have double the protection for anti-viruses....I Have enough anti-spyware I have Adaware Se, Spybot, Spy emergency, Adware/Spyware Se. Then for anti-virus I just use avast But Going to Install a back up anti-virus called RemoveIT IT doesent have real time scanning so it wont interfear with my other anti-virus.

[Scarecrow Man]

You should note that two anti-virus programs is often worse than no anti-virus. They will conflict with each other, and may cause problems.

You should only use one anti-virus. Unlike anti-spyware, where the rule is, the more the merrier.

[Geek-Squad]

but see, I have one Anti-virus for Real time Scanning and 1 for back up...When Scanning with my backup anti-virus I disable my real time anti-virus.....In this case if I do that Still The Anti-Viruses will interfear with etrother?

[Scarecrow Man]

Yes.

Scenario:

Your real-time anti-virus catches a virus in the act. It puts it into quarantine. You run your stand-alone anti-virus and it finds the quarentined item. It will attempt to quarantine the file.

This is where you will get problems. 1 anti-virus is well enough. Just make sure you update and scan daily. Many will have this feature built into it, such as AVG Free Edition and Norton.

[Geek-Squad]

Ah thank you, Now I know:)