A second feature which separates the Microsoft Antispyware beta from its competitors is the 'system explorers' section which allows the user to detailed lists of running processes, startup programs, active X objects, Internet Explorer BHOs (Browser Helper Objects), installed toolbars, the contents of the HOST file and Winsock LSPs (Layered Service Providers) among others.

Each item in these lists is assigned a rating (safe, unknown or hazardous) and can be blocked or stopped individually, and often removed if desired. System Explorers is found on the 'advanced tools' screen.

Browser Hijack Restore

Using this feature, the Microsoft antispyware beta can automatically reset a number of browser settings. This is useful if you have fallen victim to a browser hijacking application. The real-time security agents we talked about previously should prevent browser settings being changed again once you reset them with this tool.

Tracks eraser is an interesting application for Microsoft to include in its product! The Tracks Eraser application removes traces and histories from a large variety of Windows system applications and third-party apps. Internet history and cookies can be erased, as can recent document history, recycling bin contents, etc. etc. Useful for those who share a computer or for the privacy obsessed, but we're surprised since Microsoft has never been privacy obsessed.