Spybot can fix problems with tracking cookies, system internals (Registry), Winsock LSPs, ActiveX objects, browser hijackers, BHOs, and can to some extent protect a user's privacy, by deleting usage tracks. Spybot also includes an "Immunize" feature to block the installation of spyware before it occurs. Another tool included in Spybot is a file shredder, for the secure deletion of files. Spybot is not intended to replace anti-virus programs, but it does detect some common trojans and keyloggers.

A Tea-Timer module can be optionally enabled, which provides a level of active, real-time protection from undesirable registry changes and such; it is unusual for such a feature to be offered as part of a free anti-spyware program.

As some programs that ship with attached spyware or adware will refuse to run should the unwelcome co-programs be removed, later versions of Spybot allow it to replace the spyware binaries with inert dummies (designed to fool those programs which insist on the spyware's presence).

In order to efficiently detect recently created programs, Kolla regularly releases detection updates along with help improvements, new languages, and better heuristics algorithms. These updates are downloaded from within the software from a variety of mirrors and are then automatically installed.

Spybot is available for all versions of Windows from Windows 95, and offers more than two dozen different languages and several skins to users. Instructions are available on the website so users can design their own skins.

Support is currently supplied by means of Internet forums and support e-mails (with a response time of usually no more than 24 hours).

Download Spybot Search & Destroy