Problems Downloading Spybot Search & Destroy
Spybot Search & Destroy is a free anti-spyware program that detects and eliminates spyware, adware and other types of malicious programs that can harm a computer. The program also includes a process system, the SD Resident, which runs continuously in the background to provide real-time protection anytime the computer accesses the Internet.
Because of the processes that Spybot and the SD Resident perform, such as accessing files, including root files and monitoring online activity, there are often problems associated with downloading the program onto a computer. The software often encounters conflicts with security firewalls.
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Types of Problems
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The main problem downloading Spybot comes from computer firewalls. Firewalls are programs that block other programs from accessing the computer or the Internet. This is to protect systems from malicious programs that attempt to infiltrate computers through browser flaws, or stop downloaded programs from accessing the Internet without the user's knowledge.
Many firewall programs view Spybot as a security threat, and will block the program's download, or block the program's ability to contact the Internet during its installation. This causes the download to automatically stop, and the process is aborted.
Identifying Problems
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Identify the problem with the Spybot download and its underlying causes. Computers give us a clue in identifying potential problems by issuing error messages when a download goes awry. Here are the most common types of Spybot downloading error messages.
Error messages that read something like this: "Error Sending Request, server connection failed" or "File Download, Error sending request" usually occur because of firewall conflicts. The firewall is denying Spybot access to the Internet, and the download cannot be completed. -
Resolving Problems
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If a Spybot download fails, the best way to resolve the matter is to attempt a new download. Pay attention at the beginning of the download process, and uncheck the box marked "Download updates immediately" during the system component section of the download. This prevents Spybot from attempting to access the Internet during the download process, and triggering the computer's firewall. Once Spybot has been successfully downloaded and recognized by the firewall, users can check for program updates.
Another way to resolve downloading issues is by manually changing the settings in your firewall. Open the firewall program which is located in the computer's control panel. Click "Allow a program through firewall," and choose "Add a Program." Check the box next to "Spybot Search & Destroy," and click "OK." Go back and download the program again.
Downloading Updates
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Another common problem involves downloading Spybot updates. The program manufacturer routinely releases updates to keep Spybot current regarding the latest forms of malicious programs on the Internet.
"Socket Error # 11004" usually indicates Spybot is unable to download updates. This can happen even if the user's firewall has been configured to allow Spybot access to the Internet. This usually involves a conflict with the program's proxy setting.
If Spybot is unable to download updates, there are two ways to handle the situation. A quick work-around is by opening an Internet Explorer browser before checking for updates. This will allow Spybot to connect to the Internet at that specific time.
A permanent solution to the problem is to go into Spybot's setting menu located in the left-hand pane. In the Web Update section, uncheck the box next to "Use proxy to connect to connect to update server." This should fix the problem of downloading Spybot updates.
Prevention
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One of the easiest ways to avoid firewall conflict before downloading Spybot is to temporarily turn off firewalls and anti-virus programs. Once the program has been downloaded and installed, the security programs can be turned back on. They will detect Spybot, and ask if the program should be given permission to access the Internet. This should also resolve any future problems with downloading updates.
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