AdwCleaner

AdwCleaner is a powerful program designed to detect and remove adware, toolbars, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), and browser hijackers from your computer. 

Using AdwCleaner, you can effortlessly remove these apps, improving your overall user experience and browsing security. It effectively removes undesirable apps and spyware from your computer, restoring its functionality. 

Is your computer acting strange? It could be infected with adware, PUPs, or browser hijackers. Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is ready to help. It checks for and eliminates unwanted apps that slow down and degrade your computer's performance. 

AdwCleaner targets programs that are frequently included with free software downloads from the Internet. When you download and install software, the installation process may specify that extra programs will be installed alongside the main program. Unless you select Custom Install and carefully analyze the options, these unwanted apps will be installed automatically on your computer, resulting in more browser toolbars, adware, and other unwanted software. AdwCleaner is specifically intended to detect and remove these types of apps, thereby clearing your computer of unwanted programs and malware. 

Adware, as the name implies, is software that shows unwanted advertisements. It can take the shape of free software accompanied by adverts shown in pop-up windows or toolbars on your computer or web browser. While most adware is unpleasant but not harmful, other forms may collect personal information, track your browser patterns, or even record your keystrokes. 

Adware is often included with free software, but it can also be installed on your browser or operating system via security flaws. If you notice unexpected adverts in programs where they did not previously appear, or if pop-ups appear on your computer's desktop even while you are not accessing the internet, you may believe that your device has been infected with adware. Another indicator could be that your browser's homepage has been altered without your permission. You can use an adware scanner, such as the one included in AdwCleaner, to determine whether your device is affected. 

To avoid adware, use an antivirus program with an adware cleanup tool. Additionally, keep your browser, operating system, and software up to date with the most recent updates and security patches. Enabling a firewall when using the internet can also add an extra degree of security. Download AdwCleaner immediately to effectively remove adware and other unwanted programs from your Windows PC, allowing you to browse more safely and cleanly.

Is AdwCleaner included with Malwarebytes? 

Yes, however, AdwCleaner is a different utility in the Malwarebytes software suite. Malwarebytes purchased AdwCleaner in 2016 to improve its ability to detect and remove potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) and adware. AdwCleaner specializes in searching for and removing adware, browser hijackers, and other unwanted software that might impair your computer's performance and browsing experience. While both products are members of the Malwarebytes family, they serve slightly distinct functions and can be combined for a complete malware and PUP removal solution. 

Although both ADWCleaner and Malwarebytes target Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) and some Potentially Unwanted Modifications (PUMs), their detection capabilities differ. While there are intentions to merge all of ADWCleaner's detections and signatures into Malwarebytes in the future, this has yet to happen. As a result, ADWCleaner can still detect objects that Malwarebytes cannot, however, the difference is not as great as it formerly was. 

Malwarebytes has become more proactive in classifying and detecting PUPs, but if you frequently download unknown software or installers that may contain PUPs, it is still recommended that you run an ADWCleaner scan to ensure you haven't inadvertently installed any PUPs that Malwarebytes may have missed. 

Features 

Adware and PUP detection and eradication 
AdwCleaner is meant to detect and remove adware, PUPs, and other unwanted programs that may be creating invasive advertisements, redirecting web pages, or interfering with your browsing experience. 

Browser reset 
It includes a feature that allows you to restore your online browsers to their default settings, which can assist in the removal of unwanted extensions, home page hijackers, and other browser-related difficulties. 

Scan and clean the system directories. 
It searches system folders, such as Program Files and ProgramData, for possibly undesirable files and folders loaded by adware or other PUPs. 

Quarantine and restore 
It includes a quarantine option that lets you to isolate suspect files and restore them later if necessary, providing you greater control over the cleaning process. 

Regular updates 
AdwCleaner is continually updated with new adware and PUP definitions, guaranteeing that it can detect and remove the most recent problems. 

Simple and user-friendly interface 
It includes a simple and intuitive interface that allows users, including those with less technical knowledge, to scan and clean their computers. 

Languages Supported 

Arab, Bulgarian, Czech, Danish, German, Greek, English, Spanish, Basque, French, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Slovak, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, Vietnamese, and Chinese. 

PROS

• Effective at detecting and removing adware, PUPs, and other unwanted programs that can cause intrusive ads, browser hijacks, and other annoyances.
• Quick scans and cleaning process, which can save time and effort in removing unwanted programs from your system.
• Free to use: AdwCleaner is available for free, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
• Regular updates ensure that the tool stays effective against the latest threats.

CONS

• Limited scope: The app focuses on adware, PUPs, and browser-related issues, and may not be as effective against other types of malware, such as viruses, trojans, and worms.
• No real-time protection: It does not provide real-time protection, which means that it is a reactive tool and may not prevent future infections.

Conclusion

AdwCleaner is a powerful program that removes adware, PUPs, and browser-related issues from Windows PCs. It offers a simple and user-friendly layout, receives regular upgrades, and is free to use. However, because it has a limited scope and does not provide real-time protection, it is best used in conjunction with a comprehensive antivirus or antimalware solution to ensure total protection against all types of malware. 

Note: The software does not require installation; it is a portable version program. 

FAQ

Is AdwCleaner safe to use? 
Yes, AdwCleaner is generally regarded as safe to use. It was created by Adlice Software, a respected business known for producing efficient security software. However, like with any software, it is always recommended that you download AdwCleaner from the official website or a reputable source such as FileSalad to verify you are receiving the legal version. 

Does AdwCleaner eliminate viruses and malware? 
The tool is primarily intended to detect and remove adware, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), and browser-related concerns. It may be less successful against other sorts of malware like viruses, trojans, and worms. AdwCleaner is best used in conjunction with a reliable antivirus or antimalware solution to provide comprehensive protection against all sorts of malware. 

Can AdwCleaner undo the changes done during the cleaning process? 
Yes, AdwCleaner includes a quarantine option that allows you to isolate suspect files and restore them later if necessary. This can be useful if false positives are found or if you want to reverse modifications made during the cleaning procedure. However, to avoid re-infection, carefully verify the scan results and ensure that you are recovering authentic data. 

Does AdwCleaner offer real-time protection? 
No, it does not offer real-time protection. It is a reactive program, which means it detects and removes adware and PUPs after they have been installed on your system. It does not actively prevent future infections or provide continuous monitoring of your system. A dedicated antivirus or antimalware tool is required to provide real-time malware protection. 

Can I run AdwCleaner alongside my antivirus software? 
Yes, it can work alongside your antivirus program. It is intended to supplement antivirus products by focusing on adware, PUPs, and browser-related concerns that regular antivirus software may not identify. To minimize conflicts and performance concerns, it is advised that only one antivirus or antimalware product with real-time protection be used at any given time. AdwCleaner can be used on a regular basis to scan for and remove adware and PUPs from your system.