Viruses and Spyware continue to wreak havoc on computers, costing owners an estimated $7.8 billion in the last two years alone. To find the best way to protect your computer, our partners at Consumer Reports recently tested the latest software programs.

In order to test the effectiveness of antivirus software, Consumer Reports used 5,500 viruses. The viruses were quarantined on a CD to maintain tight security during testing.

"That computer was never connected to any other computer or the Internet. And we worked in a virtual environment which was erased immediately after testing," said Consumer Reports’ Dean Gallea.

Consumer Reports tested a dozen antivirus protection programs to see whether they could detect and block new viruses. Testers found big differences in detection rates.

"Some products did really well detecting the viruses just by scanning them. Other products had to wait until the viruses activated. And some couldn't do well at either," Gallea said.

On another computer, Consumer Reports tested 12 software programs designed to protect against Spyware, which can also harm your computer. Gallea loaded the computer with programs that simulate 17 different kinds of Spyware.

"For example (demonstrating on the computer), this one locks your homepage on your browser. This one sets your homepage to one you don't want," said Gallea.

No one program could eliminate all the Spyware, but some proved better than others.

In the end, Consumer Reports said a good choice is ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite for $70. It offers good protection against both Viruses and Spyware.

In addition, testers recommend a free Spyware program from Spybot called Spybot Search and Destroy to give you added protection against Spyware.

Here is a list of both Internet sites that offer the software mentioned in this report. The software was tested by Consumer Reports, but does not include an endorsement by KFOX TV.

ZoneAlarm Internet Security

Spybot Search and Destroy

For more helpful consumer information, visit Consumer Reports on the Web. Just click on the link: Consumer Reports. Consumer Reports is a fee-based Web site. Many of the articles require a subscription.