Adware Downloads 101

You’ve probably heard about adware, and maybe know that it usually takes the form of annoying advertisements. If you want to get to the bottom of pop-up windows and regain control of your online usage, read on.

What Are Adware Downloads?

Adware is a small program that can be installed on a computer, either intentionally or not. In some cases the adware is part of another program, while in other instances, it is a standalone program. Companies use adware to show advertisements and thus generate increased income. The advertisements may take the form of banners within another (usually free) program, or they may appear as pop-up windows on your screen, no matter what program you are using.

Types of Adware Downloads

There are different types of adware and a lot of it is harmless, and while it may be annoying, it is a legitimate way of generating income from ad revenue. For instance, instant messenger programs like Yahoo Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger and MSN Messenger, all include some form of adware with their downloads. By including the advertising banners within the downloads, these programs can use the money to help keep the instant messaging programs free for users.

Unfortunately, there are some examples of adware that are considered to be malware based on the way the software behaves or how it is distributed to different people’s computers. Examples of these malicious forms of activity include adware that collects information on the user and adware programs that look for holes in a computer’s security and are downloaded when the user visits a particular website.

Types of Adware Downloads

Basically, an adware download can be categorized in one of the following groups:

Adware Download with Consent

In this case, the user has chosen to download a program (usually a free one) and knows that an adware download will be bundled with the program that is being downloaded. This type of adware can include banners within the program and pop-up windows, but the user has determined that the free software is worth the annoyance of the adware.

Adware Download without Consent

These types of adware downloads are done without the user realizing that adware is being downloaded. There are usually two ways that this type of adware download occurs. The first instance is the malware that is downloaded by visiting a particular website. When a user visits the site, the program assesses the security level of the computer and looks for ways to break into the computer an install the program.

The second way this type of adware is downloaded is through the use of a misleading dialog box. In this case, a dialog box will appear that looks like one provided by Windows, usually with some type of error message or installation message. The user clicks a button within the dialog box and unknowingly downloads and installs the adware onto the computer.

Adware that is Spyware / Malware

This type of adware download is the most malicious and can cause the most damage. It is also why adware is often grouped with computer viruses. Again, this type of adware is usually installed on a computer without the user’s consent. When the program has been installed, it will show advertising often as pop-up windows. At the same time, it will be collecting personal information about the user and about the user’s computer.