If you are on a dial-up connection to the Internet whereby downloading updates to software is a slow process, if you are concerned about privacy when upgrading software automatically, or for other reasons, you can stop Spy Sweeper from automatically checking for updates upon startup. However, if you perform this tweak, you should still regularly manually check for updates, as new adware and spyware are being developed all the time. You need the latest program and definition updates to combat newer threats.

1. Double-click the Spy Sweeper icon in your Windows taskbar. If it is not present, you can click "Spy Sweeper" in your "Programs" or "All Programs" menu.

2. Click the "Options" button on the left.

3. Click the "Program Options" button on top.

4. Uncheck "Automatic Check for Updates".

When you are ready to manually update your software, which you should do often:

1. Double-click the Spy Sweeper icon in your Windows taskbar. If it is not present, you can click "Spy Sweeper" in your "Programs" or "All Programs" menu.

2. Click the "Options" button on the left.

3. Click the "Program Options" button on top.

4. Click the "Update Program" button.

Follow the on-screen prompts. A browser window may open.

5. Click the "Update Definitions" button.

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