ResNet recommends using the pop-up blockers that are built into current web browsers, including Internet Explorer, Firefox, Netscape, and Safari. ResNet does not recommend the pop-up blockers that are included in software such as AOL Instant Messenger or that are available as separate software because they interfere with webmail programs.

For best results, ResNet recommends using two spyware removal products together on your personal computer. ResNet has had success in the spring of 2006 with installing both the free Lavasoft Ad-Aware and AVG Anti-Spyware software for removing the majority of existing pop-ups/adware/spyware.

ResNet recommends the following software for removing pop-ups and and adware/spyware from your personal computer:

• Ad-Aware by Lavasoft (any edition)
  for Microsoft Windows XP Professional and Home Editions
  Ad-Aware 2007 is not Vista ready (as of August 2007).

  • Ad-Aware 2007 FREE: (removes adware/spyware)
    http://www.lavasoftusa.com/products/ad_aware_free.php
  • Ad-Aware 2007 Plus: (removes adware/spyware, schedules scans, prevents infection)
    http://www.lavasoft.com/products/ad_aware_plus.php
  • Ad-Aware 2007 Pro: (removes adware/spyware, schedules scans, prevents infection, scans network drives)
    http://www.lavasoft.com/products/ad_aware_pro.php

• Ewido Anti-Malware
  for Microsoft Windows XP Professional and Home Editions and Windows Vista Editions

  • FREE AVG Anti-Spyware (formerly ewido Anti-Spyware): (removes spyware, prevents infection)
    http://www.ewido.net/en/download/

  This software contains the free as well as the paid version of Ewido Anti-Spyware. After the installation, a free 30-day trial version containing all the extensions of the full version will be activated. At the end of the trial, these extensions will be deactivated and the program will turn into a feature-limited freeware version.

• SpySweeper by Webroot
  for Microsoft Windows XP Professional and Home Editions and Windows Vista Editions

  • SpySweeper: (removes adware/spyware/trojans, prevents infection)
    http://www.webroot.com/consumer/products/spysweeper/

  (A free trial of SpySweeper is available.)