Adware is a type of software that displays unwanted advertisements on your device. It can slow down performance, track your online activity, and lead to security issues.

Removing adware is essential to keep your system running smoothly and protect your privacy.

Signs Your Device Has Adware

• Slow Performance: Your device may lag due to excessive resource usage by adware.

• Unwanted Pop-ups: Frequent ads appear even when no browser is open.

• Modified Browser Settings: The homepage and default search engine change without your permission.

• Strange Toolbars: Extra toolbars appear in your browser without installation.

• Random Redirects: Websites open automatically, leading to suspicious pages.

Steps to Remove Adware

1. Uninstall Suspicious Programs

• Windows:
  1. Open Control Panel.
  2. Click on Programs and Features.
  3. Locate unfamiliar software and select Uninstall.
• Mac:
  1. Open Finder and go to Applications.
  2. Look for unknown apps.
  3. Drag them to the Trash and empty it.

2. Remove Adware from Browsers

3. Use an Anti-Adware Tool

Using a reliable anti-adware program can help detect and remove hidden threats. Some popular tools include:

• Malwarebytes AdwCleaner

• HitmanPro

• Norton Power Eraser

Download and run a scan with one of these tools to eliminate any lingering adware.

4. Reset Browser Settings

If adware has changed your browser settings, resetting them can restore defaults.

• Chrome: Go to Settings > Reset> Restore settings to original defaults.

• Firefox: Click on Help > Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox.

• Edge: Open Settings > Reset Settings > Restore settings to default values.

• Safari: In Preferences, remove all website data and reset.

5. Clear Temporary Files

Deleting temporary files removes any traces of adware.

• Windows:
  1. Press Win + R, type temp, and hit Enter.
  2. Delete all files in the folder.
  3. Repeat with %temp% and prefetch.
• Mac:
  1. Open Finder, press Cmd + Shift + G, and type ~/Library/Caches/.
  2. Delete unnecessary files.

6. Update Software and Operating System

Updating your system ensures security patches prevent future infections.

• Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
• Mac: Open System Settings > Software Update.
• Browsers: Ensure you are using the latest version.

Preventing Adware in the Future

• Avoid downloading software from untrusted sources.

• Read installation terms to avoid bundled programs.

• Install a reliable antivirus program.

• Keep your system and applications updated.

• Use an ad-blocker to prevent intrusive ads.

Following these steps will help keep your device free from adware, ensuring better performance and security.