Adware

adware Adware is software that displays advertising on your browser. While not categorized as Malware, many users consider these popups and banners invasive.

Adware programs often create unwanted effects on a system and the general degradation in either network connection or system performance. Adware is typically installed as separate programs that are bundled with certain free software.

Many users inadvertently agree to installing adware by accepting the End User License Agreement (EULA) on the free software.

Adware is often installed in tandem with Spyware programs. Both programs feed off of each other's functionalities - spyware programs profile users' Internet behavior, while adware programs display targeted ads that correspond to the gathered user profile.

Adware does not directly spread in the manner of a computer virus or worm: generally, an infected system does not attempt to transmit the infection to other computers. Instead, Adware is usually installed on a system with the users consent.