Describes what adware and spyware is along with the damage they can do. This tutorial is worth reading since it describes how programs with evil intentent were masqueraded as programs to prevent adware and were downloaded tens of thousands of times. It describes the threats posed by downloading free programs and the threats of file sharing programs such as Kazza. It was apparently written before the recent threat of browser hacking became common and does not detail how spyware can get on your system just from visiting an infected website. It does give a thorough list of how spyware can infect a computer and lists some brands of software that contain adware/spyware for no extra charge.

Explains what a browser helper object (BHO) and what it does. It also provides some additional links.

Explains in detail how browser helper objects (BHOs) are used to customize the function of the browser.

Describes spyware, and recommended measures to take to prevent it including security settings of Internet Explorer. Describes using a HOSTS file to prevent spyware. Describes how to remove spyware and adware. An excellent article.

Outlines several tips to use to prevent malware including the use of SpywareBlaster, using kill bits, using the hosts file as a means of prevention, and guarding against CoolWebSearch.