Adware can be defined as a software program that wreaks havoc with your computer.
More appropriately, it is an application which shows banners, ads, pop-ups and the like on your computer.
Adware has sometimes been called Spyware when it acts to gather personal information that is on your computer.
The reality is that AdWare is a registered trademark that belongs to AdWare Systems, Inc.
AdWare Systems has nothing to do with the pop-ups or spyware that you may get on your computer.
If your computer is infected with Adware, you may find advertisements being presented to you when you use a certain software package.
Sometimes it happens when you simply download a freeware or shareware program.
The author may feel that while you have free use of their program, they will present some ads to you.
Those that download programs from file sharing sites may get more than they expected.
While one may get an initial reaction that all Adware is bad, many reputable and popular products either have used or currently use Adware, including: AOL Instant Messenger Gator VirusProtectPro WeatherBug Zango If you feel the need to get rid of Adware, there are several programs available that will either detect, quarantine, and remove Adware.
Some of the more popular include: Adware Deluxe Adware Patrol Doctor Adware Pro Most of the time Adware (if it is not Spyware) is nothing more than a pain that throws pop-ups at you at the most inopportune times.
Still, if it is not something that you asked for, why should you let it take over your computer? If you believe that your computer is infected with Adware, the first round of defense is to figure out which program causes the issue.
A Google search may help in that regard.
The next step would be to look at purchasing a well known Adware removal product, such as those listed above.
Simply run the program and it should have your computer back to its normal self in not time at all.