All the main antivirus tools now claim to detect spyware along with other threats, but tests show their effectiveness can vary considerably. It's a good idea to install a specialist antispyware tool, then, ready to deliver a second opinion whenever it's required, and PC Tools Spyware Doctor is one of the best.

The first plus point you'll notice is its speedy detection engine. While some programs keep you waiting for an hour or more, Spyware Doctor by default uses an Intelli-Scan mode that checks only the most likely areas to be infected, and can return a verdict in five minutes or so. Of course full system scans are available too, if you need them, and you can also construct a custom scan that checks just the areas you need: the HOSTS file, startup programs, running processes, whatever it happens to be.

The results of a scan are sensibly categorised according to the severity: low, medium or high. This helps you see at a glance whether there's anything to worry about (no panicking over "150 threats" here, only to find out they're all cookies), and there's plenty of information available on any problem the program uncovers.

And if on-demand scans aren't quite enough then you can enable Spyware Doctor's real time protection feature, IntelliGuard. The Starter Edition only has a couple of Guards enabled, but fortunately they're two of the very best. Immuniser Guard prevents known malicious ActiveX threats from running on your PC, while File Guard monitors and blocks you from launching malicious applications, or opening dangerous email attachments.

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Upgrade Offer – get 30% off the commercial PC Tools Spyware Doctor 6

Move to the full commercial version of Spyware Doctor and you'll gain much improved real-time protection, with guards to monitor your browser and network settings, Windows startup programs, running processes and more. Or if you like the program you could try Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 6, which adds complete antivirus protection.

Subscription prices start at £29.95 but, as a Starter Edition user, you can upgrade and save 30% from the standard retail price. Either upgrade within the software or, if you do not want to install the Starter Edition, simply click here to the upgrade page directly to purchase at 30% off the retail price. You can also get 30% off other PC Tools software, such as the new Registry Mechanic 8, on the same page.