This is different from the program Ad-Aware which is a spyware removal tool.

The term 'adware' refers to any piece of software that displays or downloads advertising material to a computer after being installed. The term is commonly used to describe malware (malicious software), e.g. advertising software that is installed without a user's knowledge or consent. It can, however, also describe legitimate applications that use advertising as a means of recovering development costs or providing software at a reduced price or for free.

Typical activities include:

• Random pop-up adverts being displayed, often of a pornographic nature
• Extra toolbars in Internet Explorer, often replacing legitimate toolbars
• 'Hijacking' a browser to direct users to advertising sites

Similar to other forms of malware, adware is typically installed without the user's consent and can be notoriously difficult to remove. It will also often be responsible for issues such as program crashes or slowness of the computer or internet connection.