Adware

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__//What is Adware?//__ Adware is also known as advertising-supported software. Any software package which automatically displays, plays or downloads advertisements is classed as Adware. To use, they are free, but require you to watch advertisements as long as the programs are open. Adware programs that are more common, are toolbars that work in conjunction with the Web browser or toolbars that just stay on the desktop.

This video shows the consequences of an 'Adware Attack': An adware attack is where many advertisements start to pop up on your screen, if you try to cancel one of these advertisements then another will pop up; if this happens then your computer is infected. Adware is considered a type of virus and it installs large amounts of add on's. @http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECRetH5piP4

There are three things that adware can do to your computer:

 * Slow your computer by adding sites and using memory, you have available on your computer. It can hijack your home page and take you to sites you aren't interested in.
 * Allow pop up ads that are not only annoying but also disruptive to your system.
 * Adware is a severe security risk. Since they run every time you turn on your computer, they can cause slowdowns and software conflicts that can make your computer unstable.

Ways to avoid adware from infecting your computer:
 * To try and not go on websites that have alot of advertisements on them. ( just in case you accidently click on one )
 * Block pop ups
 * Have a secure firewall
 * Have a fully functional antivirus software.