Microsoft SpyNet
Encyclopedia
Microsoft SpyNet is the network of Windows Defender
and Microsoft Security Essentials users that help determine which programs are classified as spyware
. The signatures created for any submitted programs by the users of the product are available to all users, displayed as a bar graph that shows the percentage of people who have allowed, blocked, or removed an item. This method of spyware classification allows rare, unknown, or new spyware to be categorized as most people choose to send their data.
Included in the v2.0 there is the ability to completely opt out of this program.
Windows Defender
Windows Defender, formerly known as Microsoft AntiSpyware, is a software product from Microsoft to prevent, remove, and quarantine spyware in Microsoft Windows...
and Microsoft Security Essentials users that help determine which programs are classified as spyware
Spyware
Spyware is a type of malware that can be installed on computers, and which collects small pieces of information about users without their knowledge. The presence of spyware is typically hidden from the user, and can be difficult to detect. Typically, spyware is secretly installed on the user's...
. The signatures created for any submitted programs by the users of the product are available to all users, displayed as a bar graph that shows the percentage of people who have allowed, blocked, or removed an item. This method of spyware classification allows rare, unknown, or new spyware to be categorized as most people choose to send their data.
Basic Membership
One of the SpyNet choices in Windows Defender. This choice does not alert the user of software, and changes made by software that has not been analyzed for risks. Computer information is sent (such as IP address, operating system, and Web browser), and personal information might be sent (such as search terms or data entered into forms), but will not be used to identify you or contact you.Advanced Membership
Another SpyNet membership choice in Windows Defender. This choice sends more information about software files, usage, and how it affects your computer. Computer information is sent (such as IP address, operating system, and Web browser), and personal information might be sent (such as search terms, data entered into forms, file paths, or partial memory dumps), but will not be used to identify you or contact you.Opt Out
Users of Microsoft Security Essentials can opt out by left click on task bar icon , settings, spynet and then choose opt-out.Included in the v2.0 there is the ability to completely opt out of this program.