What is Adware?

Adware, otherwise known as advertising-supported software includes any software package that automatically plays, downloads or displays advertisements on a computer while the application is used or once the software is installed.

These advertising functions integrated and bundled into the software notes what internet sites the user visits then presents ads pertinent to goods and services that are featured there. Developers of adware see this as a way to recover money from development costs, therefore allowing the software to be provided for a reduced price or free of charge. These advertisements could be seen by the user as annoyances, interruptions or distractions from the task at hand.

Adware is primarily advertising supported and by being downloaded on your computer, can also install spyware. spyware is a type of malware installed on computers that collects information about users without their knowledge. Understand what adware is to give you insight on how it can be dangerous to your computer and compare to other downloadable software such as freeware, malware, shareware and spyware.

Tags: adware software advertising