When I tried to update my Spybot March 10 2006 I got a file
"Detection support library Detection support routines update 238 kb 2006-03-10"

But when I clicked it to open it, it gave me the error message:

"Detection Support Library !!!bad checksum 2006-03-10"

So I guess the file is corrupt. Tried it since, same result.

I was wondering if ZoneAlarm's new AntiSpyware (including, it seems, original Zone Alarm) would be a good replacement?

Here's their pitch:

"Dear ZoneAlarm® user,

With ZoneAlarm, the award-winning firewall from Zone Labs, you've made an important first step in protecting your PC and your privacy. With spyware threats and identity theft on the rise, protecting your PC has never been more important. Take the next step and prevent spyware from getting onto your system with ZoneAlarm Anti-Spyware. Enjoy the same ZoneAlarm firewall protection plus anti-spyware, email security, and a new firewall that protects your PC all the way down to the operating system.

Upgrade now for only $19.95 (USD) Limited time offer

Compare ZoneAlarm® with ZoneAlarm® Anti-Spyware and see the difference:
Feature of both ZoneAlarm and ZoneAlarm Anti-Spyware
Basic Firewall - blocks hackers and other unknown threats

Additional features of ZoneAlarm Anti-Spyware
- Triple Defense Firewall - protects your entire PC, including your operating system and programs, from hackers and spyware
- Anti-Spyware - scans for and removes spyware, adware, and 3rd-party cookies
- Wireless PC Protection - secures your PC at home or on the go
- Email Security - quarantines suspicious email attachments and halts outgoing email with potential viruses

ZoneAlarm's site

Can't complain about the price, but I'm leery of having too much stuff on my computer -- unless it's good stuff.

Reference the Spybots, I believe that just means the server is too busy. Just click the Cancel button and try it again later. Generally I can get the download successfully within about 5 minutes. I have seen this same error message many times, yet alway managed to complete the update.

As for the ZoneAlarm, there have been a number of complaints about the new service causing system problems.
More here. See the section ZA5.
I think the Zone Labs people will get the corrections made, but until they have it corrected, I would suggest you avoid it. In the "for what it's worth" category, I don't use the Pro version of ZoneAlarm, preferring the free version.

Dwight

Sounds like good advice. Thank you, I'll follow it at least until ZA anti-spyware shakes its bugs out.