Description
Adware, a term often used instead of “spyware” by vendors of software that includes ad-serving components, is any application whose revenues are supported by displaying advertisements when the application is running. Such applications display advertisements in a way that is not initiated by the user and is often delivered without permission. Some adware applications also track Web browsing to maximize revenues by delivering advertisements targeted to the user’s Web browsing habits or interests. Users may choose to remove adware to eliminate Web tracking, halt advertising, and improve system performance. Users may also choose to keep adware that is bundled with certain software (such as file-sharing programs) because many such programs will run only if the adware component remains installed.