What Is Ad-Aware?
To keep computers running efficiently, users should run anti-spyware software, such as Lavasoft's Ad-Aware, regularly. These anti-spyware programs help maintain the computer's health, improve a computer's speed and operating quality and protect the computer from online threats. Lavasoft offers several versions of the Ad-Aware program, ensuring there is acceptable protection for every type of computer user.
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Definition
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Ad-Aware is an anti-spyware program that protects computer users from Trojans, keyloggers, spyware and password-stealing bugs. The program also helps prevent identity theft by protecting and encrypting personal information. The program can also block pop-ups and eliminate personal Internet files, such as cookies or temporary Internet files. Many variations of the program exist, including business editions, gaming editions and personal/home editions.
Significance
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Lavasoft's Ad-Aware program is currently (as of July 2010) the most popular anti-malware software, according to Lavasoft's website. The program was created in 1999 in Germany, and the program headquarters were moved to Gothenburg, Sweden, in 2002. The program has been downloaded over 350 million times as of July 2010. In addition, the program has 4,000 partners in over 120 countries.
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Personal Edition
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The Ad-Aware Total Security program is ideal for personal use on a home computer. This program features advanced technology, and helps block phishing, spam, viruses and Trojans. The program also includes a firewall, online backup system, data recovery and system tuning options. Advanced settings allow users to shred or encrypt personal files, such as phone numbers, addresses, Social Security numbers or credit card numbers. Parental controls also allow parents to monitor their children's computer use or block specific websites. The program is available online for a free 30-day trial, and Ad-Aware Total Security also features a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Business Edition
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The Ad-Aware Business Edition protects a network of computers against malware, viruses, spyware and rootkits, which can otherwise infiltrate a network and cause harm to business files. According to Lavasoft, the program puts a minimal strain on system resources and does not slow down the business network. In addition, the program allows IT administrators to control the network through a centralized management tool, enabling policy creation, flexible reporting and file scanning. Users may download a free 30-day trial from the Lavasoft website, and the program has a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Gaming Edition
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According to Lavasoft, the amount of threats targeting online gamers increased by 600 percent in a six-month period beginning in early 2010. To reduce the risk of these threats, computer users should consider Lavasoft's Game Edition of Ad-Aware. This program features malware protection, as well as antivirus software. The program also offers a "Do Not Disturb" mode, which enables the program to run quietly in the background, for uninterrupted play. Users may schedule scans, and control process, registry and network protection options. The program is specifically designed to use minimal resources so gaming is not affected.
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References
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