Adware Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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adware
[ĖƦdĖwÉÉr ]
Definition
software
Software that automatically displays or downloads advertising material (often unwanted) when a user is online.
Synonyms
ad-supported software, advertising software, advertising-supported software.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| adware |
Adware is software that automatically displays or downloads advertising material, often without the user's knowledge. It usually has a negative connotation, associated with unwanted ads that can slow down devices or invade user privacy.
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| advertising-supported software |
Advertising-supported software is another term for ad-supported software. It highlights that the program is funded by advertisements. This term can be used interchangeably with 'ad-supported software' in most contexts.
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| advertising software |
Advertising software can cover a broad range of applications that facilitate the creation, dissemination, and tracking of advertising campaigns. It's a neutral term used in marketing and business contexts.
|
| ad-supported software |
Ad-supported software refers to programs that offer their services for free but include advertisements as a way to generate revenue. This is a neutral term that emphasizes the trade-off between free usage and ad viewing.
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Examples of usage
- Pop-up ads are a common form of adware.
- Adware can slow down your computer's performance.
- Some adware may track your online activity for targeted ads.
- Adware can be bundled with free software downloads.
- Adware can be a security risk for your personal information.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- Many free apps and websites use adware to generate revenue, often leading to a trade-off between free access and intrusive ads.
- Some adware can slow down device performance or interfere with normal operation, prompting users to remove it.
Legal Aspects
- Certain adware practices have raised legal concerns, especially when they collect user data without consent.
- Regulatory bodies worldwide are starting to examine adware's impact on privacy, leading to calls for better controls.
Pop Culture
- Adware has been featured in discussions about online privacy in movies, blogs, and documentaries about the internet's evolution.
- Some video games incorporate adware by showing ads during gameplay, much to the annoyance of players.
User Impact
- Adware can cause user frustration due to unsolicited pop-ups and browser redirects, impacting the overall online experience.
- While some users might ignore adware, it can lead to serious concerns over data privacy and security if left unchecked.
Origin of 'adware'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'adware' combines 'advertisement' and 'software,' representing its purpose.
- Adware first gained popularity in the late 1990s as the internet began to expand rapidly.
The term 'adware' is a blend of 'advertising' and 'software' and originated in the late 1990s with the rise of online advertising. Adware has evolved over the years to become more sophisticated and sometimes intrusive, leading to concerns about user privacy and security.