Whitelist technology, the opposite of blacklist, is an allowable list of sites, domain names or email addresses. A whitelist enables a user to specify what is allowed to penetrate the system. For example, a whitelist of domain names is a list of URLs that are authorized to display, despite any rules of an email spam blocker program.

A blacklist is a list of domain names, email addresses, or viruses, that are considered dangerous, and are denied entry to the system they are trying to penetrate. For example, a web site can be placed on a blacklist because it is known to be fraudulent, or because it recruits your browser to send spyware or other unwanted software to your PC

In 2007 Microsoft launched the new operating system, Windows Vista. Compatibility with Vista means that your spyware product is designed to work with the operating system without error or delay. Because Vista is new, not all spyware detection software is compatible with the OS.

Malware is simply a synonym for spyware. The two terms can be used interchangeably.

A rootkit is a type of spyware which can conceal running processes, files or system data, which helps an intruder remain in a computer system undetected.

Keyloggers record keystrokes and can obtain personal information and passwords.  These programs can track almost every action you take. The result of keyloggers can be a unauthorized copy of emails, chat dialogues and web browsing activites. The recorded information can be later accessed or even emailed from your computer.

Browser hijackers are programs that automatically run every time you open Internet Explorer, sometimes controlling your browser or recording personal information and surfing habits. Though some Browser Hijackers may integrate helpful features into your toolbar, most are malicious and damaging.