CounterSpy 2 is tough on spyware, adware, rootkits, and other malware, but is light on system resources and memory. Advantages of CounterSpy 2: Heavy-duty antispyware protection treads lightly on system resources. Kernel-level Active Protection defends 24-7. Hybrid design combines antimalware technology with our award-winning spyware detection and removal. Deep-rooted malware is exterminated at boot time, before Windows loads. Incremental definition updates greatly reduce update downloading time. Version 2.5.1032 adds support for Windows Vista 64-bit and Windows Server 2003.

Editor's review of CounterSpy

Along with its solid ability to remove spyware, CounterSpy includes a few features we don't normally see in a spyware remover. The attractive interface is nicely arranged, with highly visible buttons to get beginners started. Scanning times are on par with other spyware removers such as Ad-Aware and Spybot, and seem pretty thorough.

CounterSpy's publisher updates its definition file frequently and runs a fully staffed spyware research department. After a scan, CounterSpy can delete, quarantine, or remove spyware. On the quarantine screen we found we couldn't scroll the list of spyware, and we also would like to see a button that would select all of the found spyware, to make removal easier. Those small issues aside, CounterSpy goes above and beyond by including a scheduler, secure file shredder, and a history cleaner. We particularly like the scheduler, which makes it easy to set up weekly scans.

As with other reputable spyware removers, it includes active protection which also monitors ActiveX controls. The trial download includes 15 days of definition file updates. With all the spyware remover scams, it's good to see an application of this quality.