Every once in a while it's important that you maintain your computer by running good pc cleaning software. Like a car, it too needs maintenance. With software development in it's current state. Useful applications like these are making it easy for every-day people to maintain and keep their computers clean, stable and performing in top condition. (Good pc cleaning software should also remove malware and adware from your computer).

What Does It All Mean?

Definitions And Terminology:

Malware

Malware is the term used to describe 'Malicious Software'. Software which was programmed to hurt/intrude upon or otherwise annoy the end user against their own will. Computer virus is usually considered a phrase that describes Malware activity.

Other more common known forms of Malware include: Viruses, Trojan Horses, Rootkits and Worms. Some pc's infected with Malware also have the ability to infect other pc's (on local networks or over the internet). Malware typically infringes upon computer user's rights.

Adware

Adware is the term used to describe software that generates advertisements on infected computers. Generally they will be in the form of multiple pop-up windows and browser hijacks.

Legitimate forms of Adware do exist and they are often consented to by the user (usually for free services). However, there are also illegitimate types of Adware (Adware that has not been consented to by the user). Trying to browse the internet is typically a nightmare with an Adware infected pc.

Cookies

Cookies are small pieces of text info gathered from a website in order to save your preferences for that particular website. They are not executable (they contain text data only).

Certain websites depend upon the use of Cookies to remember your settings (example: shopping cart websites). Cookies are not classified as being Malware or Viruses and it will be normal to find some stored on your pc. They are harmless and generally regarded to as being safe to have around.