2 of 5

Write now Article Tools

As an 9 year IT professional I have found that you need to pursue two avenues to get rid of adware: Cure and prevention.

Curing existing adware:

1) Install Spybot (free from www.spybot.info). Install the software, download the latest updates for SpyBot. Run the immunize function. Then scan for adware and then remove. (This sometimes requires a reboot - and sometimes a Safe Mode reboot - but the program will set this up for you).

2) Install Ad Aware SE Personal edition (free from http://www.lavasoftusa.com/pro ducts/ad-aware_se_personal.php ). Install the software and again check for updates.

3) Go to Add/Remove programs under the Control Panel and uninstall any internet games you recently downloaded.

4) If you are still having issues, download HiJackThis (free from:

http://www.spywareinfo.co m/~merijn/programs.php)
Run it and post the report on the forums on:

http://www.spywareinfo.com

T his site is also excellent for spyware/adware experts and advice.

Prevent future spyware:

1) You have already run the immunize function in Spybot - Good job!

2) Download Firefox browser (free from www.getfirefox.com) Install and use instead of IE for any website you haven't visited before or do not trust. It is less susceptible to adware.

3) Don't install free Internet games. Yes they are cool, but most of them have adware of some sort or another.

4) If you are a little more tech. savvy install Active Ports (free from: http://www.protect-me.com/free ware.html). This little utility for NT/2000/XP shows you all open TCP/UDP ports and the applications using the ports in real-time. Useful for tracking down hidden trojan/back door programs.

5) Purchase a good anti-virus program. AVG Free version has been previously suggested, however it does not the adware detection functionality that the purchased version has, and should not be a substitute for a full version.

Learn more about this author, Chris Harkness.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to get rid of adware?
We want to hear your view. Write now!