I have been using StopZilla for the 15-day free period and find it
effective in blocking popups. They also claim ability to block spyware
and adware and erase cookies  and history, something I did not verify.
Does anybody have good or bad experience with Sopzilla, and althoug it
seems good I would like to hear from others if there is anything
better and how good they find StopZilla is, before buying it

For spyware removal, I like Ad-Aware, and ZoneAlarm as a firewall. 
The free versions work well.

Also, I use Ghostsurf, which I purchased.  It works well with IE.

I use the registered version of StopZilla...it works quite well, and
has saved me from many a nasty virus. I'd reccomend purchasing it.
Also, if you're trying to eliminate spyware, try Webroot SpySweeper 2.