Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is one of the top malware detection and removal tools of 2014, but it is definitely not the only one. In this article we will look at some free and paid Malwarebytes Anti-Malware alternatives, which can help you keep your computer squeaky clean.
Additional Protection Required?
While the anti-virus programs are constantly evolving and getting better at catching and neutralizing common threats, they do not offer 100% protection – some studies suggest that more than 25% of all computers get infected even though they have anti-virus programs installed and running. This calls for installing additional protection and security software, which works well in conjunction with your anti-virus program and can help you find and remove infected files and malicious programs.
1 HitmanPro
Available in both 32 and 64-bit versions, HitmanPro offers lighting fast scans and finds and removes not only viruses, but also spyware, rootkits, Trojans, Worms, as well as Rogue Antivirus programs. The tool uses very little system resources since it keeps all the virus definitions in the cloud and you have the choice between quick and full scan. Unlike other programs, which are often quick to flag any suspicious or unknown file or software, HitmanPro uploads suspicious files to their cloud, where these files are checked by several other security programs. This greatly increases the chances of catching even the most stealth malware and also reduces the chances of false positives. HitmanPro comes with a Kickstart feature, which can help you boot up your Windows machine if it gets infected with ransomware. The software is paid and several payment plans are available.
2 Spybot Search & Destroy 2.2
Spybot Search & Destroy is one of the oldest well-known spyware removal tools and is now available in both Free and Paid editions. The program offers both spyware and adware detection and removal and even though the newer 2014 version has less intuitive interface, it still offers adequate protection against browser and homepage hijackers, spyware, keyloggers, Trojans, and other malware. The tool offers Rootkit, File, and System scans as well as several other features that the more advanced users will find useful.
3 SuperAntiSpyware
SuperAntiSpyware is available in Free and Professional editions – some of the features such as real-time protection and scheduled scanning are not available in the Free version, yet the tool is a fantastic addition to any good Antivirus program. It performs fast scans, uses very little system resources, and it is quite effective at detecting various malware, including spyware, rootkits, and Trojans. It also finds Tracking cookies and lets you decide if you want to keep or remove any or all of them.
Conclusion
Malicious programs can perform various acts such as corrupting or deleting files and documents or stealing sensitive personal and financial information. The best way to protect your computer against infections is to install and run an Antivirus program as well as additional anti-malware tool.
On top of the alternatives above, make sure to look into tools that check your MBR (Master Boot Records)