This post originated from an RSS feed registered with .NET Buzz by Doug Thews. Original Post: Dell Systems Pre-Loaded with SpyWare Feed Title: IlluminatiLand Feed URL: http://apps5.oingo.com/apps/domainpark/domainpark.cgi?client=netw8744&s=JETBRAINS.COM Feed Description: A technology blog for people enlightened enough to think for themselves Latest .NET Buzz Posts Latest .NET Buzz Posts by Doug Thews Latest Posts From IlluminatiLand

The fact that Dell systems come pre-loaded with spyware (probably stuff that helps record system ops for remote diagnostics later) is cause for some concern. BUT, the fact that Dell is telling their tech support folks not to help customers remove this spyware when giving remote support is just plain silly.

I've purchased many a Dell system (and recommended them to friends & family). My server farm for D&D Consulting is all Dell 1300/1400, and I have several other Dell desktops & laptops. I really like their systems, and the 2 times I've had a problem, I received replacement systems (actually upgrades at that time) with no questions asked. Out of 8 systems, that's not too bad.

For those buying Dell over the holidays - hop right on over to http://www.safer-networking.org/ and download their freeware utility called SpyBot Search & Destroy tool to get rid of this stuff. I use it daily on all of my client systems. It provides free updates for all of the newest SpyWare, and has a great undo feature should you want to put something back that was removed. An excellent product!