It is preloaded on my new Compaq XP computer along with the MS Media Player. I was wanting to see what it is about, but I don't want to agree to their licence if it does allow spyware? I'm just being extra safe, Thanks. I'm not ignorant, I just need more learning!

Go here and have look at this, I personally will not have it on my computer... http://jogin.com/weblog/archives/2004/02/29/real_obnoxious Purgamentum initium, exitus purgamentum

You can set Real Player up so that it has no spyware, email notices and popups. Just remember that you have to start at the very beginning by unchecking every notice, etc. starting when you are doing the registration/license and it ends by going through every item in the preferences settings, no remembering cookies, etc. You should also stop it from being a startup program by using msconfig, so you must be vigilant! Some of my favorite radio programs require it, which is the only reason I have it installed.

What people dont understand is that just about all music players including windows media are to some degree considered spyware programs. They go out and find what the titles of the songs you have are and the artist and other information. If you are connected to the internet, you just cant be unknown. From dialing into your isp to checking email to playing songs. Big brothers are watching. Even computing.net knows who you are. Girls just wanna have fun! Im out to help them all I can!

I had enough problems with the Windows media player 10 that I am not going to even mess with this Real One Player. I would like to know if it can be uninstalled before one of my kids try to use it? Or, at least want to get it out of my Programs file. You know, out of sight, out of mind. Thanks I'm not ignorant, I just need more learning!

Sorry, it was trouble with the Media Player 9. not number 10 I'm not ignorant, I just need more learning!

You can go into control panel > add/remove programs > find real player in the list and click remove. --Viv :) Never enter a battle of wits with an unarmed person...