Malwarebytes AdwCleaner

What Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is

Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is a free Windows utility for finding and removing adware, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), and browser hijackers. It can also scan for unwanted software that came preinstalled on a Windows computer. Malwarebytes describes it as a cleaner for home users and technicians.

After a scan, users can select detections to quarantine and disable, then restart the device to complete cleanup. Scan results also let users choose whether to delete or restore detected items. The command-line interface can scan and list detections, scan and quarantine them, or uninstall AdwCleaner. Suspected false positives can be reported from scan results for review by Malwarebytes malware removal specialists.

AdwCleaner supports Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8.1. Windows XP, Vista, 7, and 8 are no longer supported. Listed minimum requirements are an 800 MHz CPU with SSE2, 512 MB RAM, and 10 MB of free disk space. With a firewall, it requires outbound port 443 access to three Malwarebytes or AdwCleaner service addresses listed in its system requirements. Malwarebytes distinguishes AdwCleaner’s focus on adware, PUPs, and browser hijackers from Malwarebytes Free, which also removes threats such as viruses, trojans, botnets, and ransomware.

Who it suits

AdwCleaner suits Windows home users and technicians looking for a free tool focused on adware, PUPs, browser hijackers, and unwanted preinstalled software. It also offers command-line scan and quarantine options for users who want those operations outside the main interface.

Limits

The free utility focuses on adware, PUPs, and browser hijackers; Malwarebytes says Malwarebytes Free also removes viruses, trojans, botnets, and ransomware. Windows XP, Vista, 7, and 8 are no longer supported.

Getting started

1. Visit malwarebytes.com/adwcleaner.
2. Use a computer running Windows 11, Windows 10, or Windows 8.1.
3. Check that the computer meets the listed minimums: 800 MHz CPU with SSE2, 512 MB RAM, and 10 MB free disk space.
4. If using a firewall, allow outbound port 443 access to the three service addresses listed in the system requirements.
5. Run a scan and choose whether to quarantine, delete, or restore detected items.
6. Restart the device to complete cleanup after quarantining and disabling items.

Verdict

Choose AdwCleaner if you need a free Windows cleaner focused on adware, PUPs, browser hijackers, or unwanted preinstalled software. Look elsewhere if you need the broader threat coverage Malwarebytes attributes to Malwarebytes Free, including viruses, trojans, botnets, and ransomware.