In this second beta refresh (Build 1.0.614), Microsoft has made other enhancements to the detection and removal capabilities, including improved Winsock LSP removal capabilities and support for long descriptions of categorized software. In addition, they have also extended the Windows AntiSpyware beta expiration date to December 31, 2005.

When Microsoft AntiSpyware is used in conjunction with Lavasoft's Ad-Aware and Safer-Networking's Spybot Search & Destroy, the chance of an adware or spyware infection is greatly minimized.

Windows AntiSpyware (Beta) is a security technology that helps protect Windows users from spyware and other potentially unwanted software. Known spyware on your PC can be detected and removed. This helps reduce negative effects caused by spyware including slow PC performance, annoying pop-up ads, unwanted changes to Internet settings, and unauthorized use of your private information. Continuous protection improves Internet browsing safety by guarding over fifty (50) ways spyware can enter your PC.

As the software is still in beta, it has a number of bugs which may or may not be "show-stopping." The release notes of the latest version can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/releasenotes.mspx.

At this time, Windows AntiSpyware only works with Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Server 2003.