1. Adware Removal: AdwCleaner is highly effective in detecting and removing adware, including intrusive advertisements, pop-ups, and redirects that disrupt the user's browsing experience.
2. Unwanted Program Detection: The utility can identify and eliminate potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) such as toolbars, browser extensions, and software bundlers that users may have inadvertently installed.
3. Browser Hijacker Removal: AdwCleaner targets browser hijackers that modify browser settings without user consent, redirecting web searches and altering the default homepage or search engine.
4. Toolbar Removal: It can uninstall unwanted browser toolbars often installed alongside other software or through deceptive tactics.
5. Simple Interface: AdwCleaner features a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for users to initiate scans and review scan results.
6. Scan and Clean: The utility performs comprehensive system scans to identify traces of adware and unwanted programs, allowing users to select and remove detected items.
7. Quarantine Manager: AdwCleaner includes a quarantine feature to safely isolate suspicious files and registry entries, preventing them from causing further harm while providing users with the option to restore items if necessary.
1. Download and Install: Visit the official Malwarebytes website to download AdwCleaner. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the program on your Windows computer.
2. Launch AdwCleaner: After installation, launch AdwCleaner from the desktop shortcut or the Start menu.
3. Initiate Scan: Click on the "Scan Now" button to start scanning your system for adware, PUPs, browser hijackers, and other unwanted software.
4. Review Scan Results: Once the scan is complete, AdwCleaner will display a list of detected items. Review the results carefully and ensure that you only select items you want to remove.
5. Remove Detected Items: Click on the "Clean & Repair" button to remove the selected items from your system. Follow any additional prompts to complete the removal process.
6. Restart Your Computer: After removing the detected items, AdwCleaner may prompt you to restart your computer to complete the cleanup process. Follow the prompts to restart your system.
Operating System: Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10 (32-bit or 64-bit)
Processor: Intel Pentium 4 or equivalent
RAM: 2 GB or higher
Storage: 50 MB of available disk space
Internet Connection: Required for downloading updates and definitions