Is antivirus the same as anti-spy?

Answer 1

In general, if the program is designed to scan for spyware/malware, it doesn't scan for viruses. The reason for this is because you can only use one AV at a time, but multiple anti-malware programs.

More AV programs are adding malware scanning to their repertoire, though, so in this case, one program can do both.

Answer 2

No they are not the same thing.

A virus will infect the computer somehow by either damaging files, propogating to your address book, or even just by clogging up your system.

Spy ware is designed to send statistics back to the supplier as to your net usage. It sits in the system and sends periodically. It is not harmful but your net usage certainly might not be something you want handed out without your consent.

A good antiviral AND antispyware should be run regularly to keep the system clean and healthy.

Hope that helps.

Peps

Answer 3

Yes and No. My antivirus also detects spyware. All other antivirus, only detect viruses. I use http://www.filseclab.com

Superantispyware, well known to find what all other miss, will not only detect spyware but also trojans viruses. http://www.superantispyware.com

You have only a few exceptions. Otherwise an antivirus detects, viruses only an a antispyware detects spyware only.

Minddoctor, France

Answer 4

Nope. Different

Answer 5

No is not the same