Popup Preventer

This bare-bones pop-up blocker omits even the simplest features, therefore failing to trump its stiff competition. Popup Preventer sits in the system tray and is accessible via an icon that looks peculiarly similar to the Confederate flag. You can choose to have the program start up with Internet Explorer or play a beeping sound when it stops an ad, and we appreciated the inclusion of a log. However, you won't get even the most basic features, such as the ability to allow pop-ups from certain sites or a sensitivity-control setting. In our tests, Popup Preventer blocked most garden-variety ads we threw at it but was powerless against Flash or banner ads. The fact that this program won't cost you a dime is probably its biggest saving grace. All in all, the utility will probably suit only those who surf the Web infrequently.