1) SpyBot S&D is one of the best and most popular anti-spyware available. It searches your hard disk for spy or adbots and detect and remove spyware. Spybot-S&D is free, so there’s no harm giving it a try to see if something has invaded your computer. Once you have customized it, you will find it extremely effective.
2) Free real-time spyware blocker. Windows Defender is currently available to Windows XP users for free, and it’s included in the new Windows Vista operating system. I recommend Defender as a noninvasive additional tool to supplement other anti-spyware software. The user interface is excellent and very easy to use. You can run manual and scheduled scans.
3) Best anti-spyware software overall. Spy Sweeper is considered the best all-around anti-spyware program. It has a high detection rates and superior ease of use. Webroot makes a powerful primary choice with maximum protection and support.
4) Norton and Mcafee are thee two big players in the field because they dominate the market and are a household name but they are not the best! in many peoples experience from experience! The things I ask myself when anyone mentions a good program is. Is it free? What size is it? Will it drain my PCs recources? which i will only find out once i install and use! If i am not satisfied i will remove it and try another!! It’s quite simple.