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AdwCleaner

Freeware

AdwCleaner

AdwCleaner is a free tool developed by Malwarebytes that scans and removes adware and browser hijackers from Windows computers.

11
4/1/25
8.5.0

About AdwCleaner

The light and effective AdwCleaner tool locates and deletes both adware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) and toolbars and browser hijackers in computers. The security software developer Malwarebytes created this application which IT professionals along with regular users deploy for eliminating ads and unwanted changes in web browsers and software that degrades system speed. Standard antivirus programs cannot locate adware-related dangers which AdwCleaner identifies, as it specifically targets these common security threats that run beneath traditional antivirus detection methods.

Many computer users experience adware infections because adware gets hidden inside downloaded software bundles that users do not opt out from. These unwelcome programs manipulate web settings while introducing advertisements which leads to diversion of web traffic resulting in unhappy browsing sessions. The system-wide scan performed by AdwCleaner enables it to identify threats, subsequently removing them with efficiency.

AdwCleaner offers users an easy-to-use advantage as its primary benefit among its features. As a standalone executable, the tool provides simple operation without occupying system resources because it does not need installation. Users can finish their system cleaning operations through a fast scanning option that completes the process within a few minutes using this tool. AdwCleaner provides users with a preferred solution because it combines an intuitive interface with powerful results to remove both adware and excessive applications from their systems.

Why Should I Download AdwCleaner?

The download of AdwCleaner provides critical protection against intrusive software along with unwanted advertisements to anyone using a computer. People commonly install unwanted software components called adware through their downloads of free programs from the internet because these legitimate software packages usually include these hidden items. Users should install AdwCleaner because this specialized tool specifically targets threats and recovers system performance.

You should download AdwCleaner because it successfully erases adware along with browser hijackers from your system. These programs affect browser preferences while at the same time inserting ads into pages as well as directing users to websites containing potential dangers. These exposures gradually diminish web speed while creating safety vulnerabilities that make hand-driven browser setting restorations difficult. The program immediately finds adjustments made to browsers which it then returns back to default configurations.

Users benefit from AdwCleaner removal capability of potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) among its main advantages. Multiple applications make themselves appear beneficial but drain computer power through background resource usage while secretly harming system operation. Furthermore, these programs exhibit responsive advertisements and follow user activities while also installing supplementary unwanted software. The PUP detection feature of AdwCleaner enables users to achieve superior computing performance through its removal operations.

Users who suspect their PC is behaving unusually should use AdwCleaner because the tool effectively deals with unexpected slow performance along with advertisements that appear too often and suspicious browser configuration changes. Standard antivirus detection systems concentrate on virus and malware threats while ignoring adware and PUPs in their inspection work. Adware programs fail to register as security threats to standard antivirus solutions, although they do not directly damage computer security. AdwCleaner serves as a solution for these gaps by focusing on these specific types of threats, which results in improved cleaning processes.

The ease of operation stands among the primary advantages that AdwCleaner provides users. AdwCleaner functions as an easy-to-use portable application which does not need complex installation processes that many security tools require. Users can obtain AdwCleaner through a download and proceed to automatically scan for threats before using one button to eliminate identified threats from their system. The minimalistic design of this tool serves as an advantage which works for novice users together with expert users.

Is AdwCleaner Free?

Users can access AdwCleaner at no cost because it is offered without any charge to the end-user. AdwCleaner functions as a standalone program which provides free adware removal and PUPs and browser hijacker elimination to users wanting antivirus protection without spending on paid services. The free version of AdwCleaner grants users achieve uninhibited access to its entire scanning and removal functionality unlike other tools that limit free users to basic capabilities.

AdwCleaner is available without cost, yet users might encounter suggestions to switch to Malwarebytes Premium. AdwCleaner functions completely free as a standalone program for PUP and adware removal, even though the premium version adds real-time protection against ransomware and malware. AdwCleaner works well to handle adware problems yet users who desire stronger security options might use its features by updating but basic adware resolution exists without paying for an upgrade.

What Operating Systems Are Compatible with AdwCleaner?

The broad user base has access to AdwCleaner since it works on all Windows operating systems. AdwCleaner operates across all Windows 7 through Windows 10 including Windows 11 to provide its features to a wide range of operating systems from older to newer versions.

AdwCleaner functions fluidly across different system setups because it maintains a quick and transportable design that does not strain system resources. The application can be accessed immediately after download since it operates without the need for system installations.

The current version of AdwCleaner supports only Windows based systems and does not operate on macOS, Linux or Android and iOS mobile operating systems. Users working with Mac operating systems would need to find alternative security software tools developed exclusively for macOS security requirements.

What Are the Alternatives to AdwCleaner?

Malwarebytes, developed by the same studio as AdwCleaner represents one of the popular choices for users seeking alternative software packages. AdwCleaner functions once as a cleanup tool, while Malwarebytes Premium operates continuously to protect the user base from ransomware alongside malware and unwanted programs. This system security program conducts continuous monitoring of threats to stop potential infections during their development time. Users who want advanced protective services after removing adware would find the best fit in Malwarebytes Premium.

Users seeking security scanning tools should consider HitmanPro because this small program effectively finds and removes malware and spyware and adware. Users can use HitmanPro without needing to install the program, while it operates with any antivirus solution currently running on their system. The software utilizes cloud scanning capabilities to find threats, followed by automatic removing procedures. If you choose the free version, you must accept that scanning is the only function available, due to requiring a paid license for removal capabilities.

If you're looking for an open-source solution, you can benefit from using the established scanning tool Spybot – Search & Destroy to combat spyware alongside unwanted adware and other kinds of software. Users who demand system cleanup at an advanced level should use this program because of its strong scan and deletion tools. The graphical user interface of Spybot presents potential challenges because it does not have the same level of simple navigation that AdwCleaner provides.

AdwCleaner

AdwCleaner

Freeware
11
8.5.0

Specifications

Version 8.5.0
Last update April 1, 2025
License Freeware
Author Malwarebytes
Categories Utilities, Security
OS Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11

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