Ad-Aware 11.8

Ad-Aware 11.8

Lavasoft – Shareware – Windows
out of 791 votes
Latest Version
11.8

Ad-Aware: Your First Line of Defense Against Adware

David Fischer

Ad-Aware by Lavasoft excels in detecting and removing adware and spyware; however, its interface feels outdated and the detection rates could be improved for better performance.
image/svg+xml 2024 Editor's Choice
image/svg+xml VERY GOOD User Rating

Ad-Aware by Lavasoft is a comprehensive antivirus and anti-spyware software application designed to protect your computer from malware, spyware, and other malicious threats. With over 450 million downloads worldwide, Ad-Aware has been a trusted name in the cybersecurity industry for over two decades.

One of the key features of Ad-Aware is its real-time protection, which continuously monitors your computer for any suspicious activity and proactively blocks malware before it can cause harm. This real-time protection extends to web browsing, email attachments, and downloads, ensuring that you are always protected while online.

In addition to its real-time protection, Ad-Aware offers a variety of scanning options to suit your needs. The quick scan feature quickly checks common areas of your computer for malware, while the full scan thoroughly examines your entire system for any threats. You can also schedule scans to run automatically at a time that is convenient for you.

Ad-Aware's anti-spyware functionality is particularly robust, detecting and removing spyware that may be tracking your online activities or stealing sensitive information. This feature helps keep your personal data safe and secure while you browse the web or use online services.

Furthermore, Ad-Aware includes advanced features such as network protection, email protection, and a built-in firewall to safeguard your computer from a wide range of cyber threats. The software is regularly updated with new definitions to ensure that it can effectively detect and remove the latest malware.

Ad-Aware by Lavasoft is a reliable and effective cybersecurity solution for both individual users and businesses looking to protect their computers from malware, spyware, and other online threats. With its user-friendly interface, powerful features, and proven track record, Ad-Aware remains a top choice for those seeking comprehensive protection against malicious software.

Overview

Ad-Aware is a Shareware software in the category Security developed by Lavasoft.

It was checked for updates 31 times by the users of our client application UpdateStar during the last month.

The latest version of Ad-Aware is 11.8, released on 10/22/2015. It was initially added to our database on 09/24/2007. The most prevalent version is 7.0.2.6, which is used by 100% of all installations.

Ad-Aware runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

Users of Ad-Aware gave it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

Pros

  • Ad-Aware provides real-time malware protection and blocks malicious websites. It helps in detecting and removing adware, spyware, and other forms of malware from your computer.
  • The software offers a user-friendly interface with easy navigation, making it suitable for both novice and advanced users.
  • It includes additional features like email protection and network protection to provide comprehensive security for your devices.
  • Ad-Aware regularly updates its malware definitions to keep up with the latest threats, ensuring effective detection and removal of harmful software.
  • The software offers customizable scan options, allowing users to perform quick scans or full system scans based on their preferences.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that Ad-Aware can be resource-intensive, leading to a slowdown in system performance during scans.
  • The free version of Ad-Aware may come with limitations compared to the paid version, such as fewer features or restricted functionalities.
  • There have been instances where Ad-Aware has been flagged as potentially unwanted software by certain security vendors, causing confusion among users.

FAQ

What is Ad-Aware by Lavasoft?

Ad-Aware is a software program provided by Lavasoft that detects and removes spyware and other types of malicious software from computers and mobile devices.

How does Ad-Aware work?

Ad-Aware uses a combination of signature-based and behavior-based detection techniques to identify and remove spyware and other types of malware. It scans files, processes, and the Windows registry to find malicious code.

Is Ad-Aware free?

Lavasoft offers both a free version and a paid version of Ad-Aware. The free version includes basic spyware detection and removal, while the paid version includes additional features such as antivirus protection and email scanning.

Can Ad-Aware protect against all types of malware?

No. While Ad-Aware is effective at detecting and removing spyware and other types of malware, it cannot protect against all forms of cyber threats. Users should still exercise caution when downloading files or visiting unfamiliar websites.

Does Ad-Aware slow down my computer?

Ad-Aware is designed to be lightweight and efficient, so it should not noticeably slow down your computer. However, running a scan can temporarily affect performance as the software uses system resources to detect malware.

Is Ad-Aware easy to use?

Ad-Aware has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate. The software can be run in the background and will alert you if it detects any threats.

Can Ad-Aware be used on mobile devices?

Yes. Lavasoft offers a mobile version of Ad-Aware that can be installed on Android devices. The mobile version includes features such as malware scanning and anti-phishing protection.

How often should I run Ad-Aware?

We recommend running Ad-Aware at least once a week to ensure that your computer is free of malware. You should also run a scan after downloading new programs or files.

Is Ad-Aware available in multiple languages?

Yes. Ad-Aware is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese.


David Fischer

David Fischer

I am a technology writer for UpdateStar, covering software, security, and privacy as well as research and innovation in information security. I worked as an editor for German computer magazines for more than a decade before joining the UpdateStar team. With over a decade of editorial experience in the tech industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my current role at UpdateStar. At UpdateStar, I focus on the critical areas of software, security, and privacy, ensuring our readers stay informed about the latest developments and best practices.

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Installations

31 users of UpdateStar had Ad-Aware installed last month.
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