How to Disable Adware

Adware can possibly harm to your computer.

Adware is also known as spyware and malware. It is a form of malicious programming that is downloaded onto your computer through emails and Web pages in similar fashion as computer viruses. Adware causes computer performance to slow down considerably as the Web browser downloads advertisements that pop up in new Internet windows. The programs can also steal passwords and other sensitive material as well as report your Web activity to other companies. Removing adware is very important to keep your computer functioning properly.

Things You'll Need

• Adware removal program

Instructions

1. Download an adware removal program. Most anti-virus programs do not include adware protection and a specialized adware program is required. There are many useful free programs available such as Spybot, Ad-Aware and Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.

2. Update your program to make sure you have the most current updates and program definitions so your program is better able to scan and remove any harmful adware programs.

3. Restart your computer and hold down F8 on the reboot to launch Safe Mode. Safe Mode allows the computer to run on only the most vital programs so it should disable the adware programs temporarily and make it easier to find and remove them.

4. Run a scan with your anti-adware software. Delete any programs that are flagged as hazardous.

5. Restart your computer normally and run another scan to make sure everything was found and removed.

References

• Spam Laws: How Do I Remove Adware?
• Malektips.com: Ad-Aware Helps and Tips

Resources

• Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
• Spybot Search and Destroy
• Ad-Aware