Malwarebytes AdwCleaner for Windows

Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is a free, lightweight program that scans and removes adware, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), browser hijackers, and other unwanted software from your computer. It is designed for quick cleanups without requiring a full antivirus installation, making it useful for restoring normal browser and system performance.

The program runs without installation, making it portable and easy to use. Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is particularly effective for fixing common browser issues caused by adware and unwanted extensions. It is regularly updated to detect the latest threats, ensuring that users can remove problematic software that slows down or disrupts their system.

Simple, fast, and effective cleaning

Malwarebytes AdwCleaner offers a straightforward interface with just a few buttons, allowing users to perform scans, view results, and remove threats with minimal effort. It targets adware, PUPs, and browser hijackers that often come bundled with free software. However, it is not a full antivirus solution, which means it cannot protect against all types of malware. This limitation makes it better suited as a supplementary cleanup tool rather than primary protection.

The scanning process is fast, typically taking only a few minutes to complete. Results are displayed clearly, showing detected items and allowing users to choose which ones to remove. It also includes a Basic Repair feature that resets certain Windows and browser settings altered by adware or PUPs. However, it is limited to certain types of threats and offers no real-time protection, reducing its ability to guard against ongoing or emerging attacks.

For alternatives, users can consider tools such as HitmanPro, Zemana AntiMalware, or Windows Defender’s built-in scan for broader protection. However, this software stands out for its no-install design, ease of use, and effectiveness against adware, making it a solid choice for quick cleanup tasks. That said, it requires manual updates, which can be inconvenient and leave the program outdated if users forget to refresh its threat database regularly.

A handy tool for cleanup

Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is a reliable, portable, and easy-to-use tool for removing adware and unwanted programs. While it should not be your only line of defense, it excels at fast cleanups and fixing browser issues. Its no-install approach, targeted threat removal, and ability to reset altered settings make it a valuable, hassle-free addition to any user’s overall security toolkit, especially for those needing quick, effective, and on-demand system maintenance.

• Upgraded to Qt6 to keep AdwCleaner up-to-date and improve performance
• Updated bundled definitions to version 2024.10.23.2
• Improved the handling of network connections to prevent various bugs from occurring