Spybot -- Search & Destroy 2.7 adds new Start Center screen, improves malware search

Irish security developer Safer Networking has released Spybot -- Search & Destroy 2.7, a new version of its Windows free and paid-for anti-malware tool.

The major new feature in this release is the addition of an additional Start Center screen giving users access to frequently used functions. It also promises a number of improvements -- including Secure Boot support -- and better reliability.

Spybot works on two levels: a free version provides a manual scan and remove tool, while paid-for editions bundle real-time protection in the form of an integrated BitDefender antivirus engine.

The new edition’s Start Center is designed to provide users with easy access to key tasks, with one-click buttons for scanning, updating and immunizing the system via a new window. A 'Show details' link then takes users to the more familiar icon-based view.

Another major update is improved support for Secure Boot systems. The new version also promises to play more nicely with the latest feature updates in Windows 10 (builds 1709 and later). There’s also improved integration with the BitDefender AV engine.

There’s also upgraded service handling and an improved malware search tool. The update is rounded off with several fixes to improve reliability.

Spybot Free 2.7 is available now for personal use for Windows 7 or later. Users can also add antivirus, antispyware and antimalware real-time protection with Spybot Home +AV ($15.99), or upgrade to Spybot Pro +AV ($27.99), which also bundles a Boot CD creator.