Difference between spyware and adware

Adware and Spyware require different strategies for removal than viruses. This is because they spread differently and have a tendency to integrate themselves into the Internet browser rather than into the operating system. Adware is software that displays advertisements. This does not mean that any software that provides advertisements or tracks your on-line activities is adware. Adware is software that displays advertising banners, re-directs you to websites, and otherwise conducts advertising on your computer (not to be confused with popup ads, which come from the websites that you visit). Malware is malicious software that is intended to do harm to your computer or software.

Adware is usually just an annoyance, but in some cases can cause greater difficulties. The less common second classification of spyware programs is called malware.

Anti-spyware software will look for evidence of these files and delete them if found. Anti-spyware programs work a lot like anti-virus programs. They allow you to scan your computer for spyware.

Viruses can also replicate themselves. All computer viruses are manmade. Viruses will be replaced by a new generation of highly networked malware whose only purpose is to steal, build power, and remove cash from your wallet -- in short, spyware. The skills of spreading viruses will be applied not to showing off programming skills, but to building powerful distributed networks of stolen computer resources that have enough to hack into poorly protected systems and then make them part of that same network, Borg style. Viruses are sometimes confused with computer worms and Trojan horses. A worm can spread itself to other computers without needing to be transferred as part of a host, and a Trojan horse is a file that appears harmless.

Ad-Aware doesn't offer real-time protection or scheduled system scans, but it makes a good supplement to your primary anti-spyware program, since reviews say no single spyware removal tool can catch all threats. As the free Ad-Aware doesn't have real-time monitoring, it doesn't drain system resources except when scanning. Ad-Aware is probably the easiest to use of the three. SpyBot is good, but a bit complex for beginners.

Companies that include spyware with their programs generally claim that bundling spyware allows them to offer their original programs for free. But you should know by now that on the Internet, few things are really free. Companies also risk exposure of intellectual property and other sensitive data through the use of spyware.

Ad-ware is software designed to serve advertising companies. It can also be thought of as spyware because it almost invariably includes components for tracking and reporting user information. Ads relevant to your searching are much more effective than random ads. Although the ad itself may be merely a nuisance, it has been delivered at that time because your search was being monitored, and you should be concerned for your privacy. Administrator of such spyware applications can get your important information like passwords, emails etc. The captured information can be used for malicious purpose.

Adjusting the settings within your browser to reduce or prevent scripting or active content may reduce the number of pop-up windows that appear. Some browsers offer a specific option to block or limit pop-up windows.