Advertising functions
are integrated into or bundled with
the software, which is often
designed to note what Internet sites
the user visits and to present
advertising pertinent to the types
of goods or services featured there.
Adware is usually seen by the
developer as a way to recover
development costs, and in some cases
it may allow the software to be
provided to the user free of charge
or at a reduced price. The income
derived from presenting
advertisements to the user may allow
or motivate the developer to
continue to develop, maintain and
upgrade the software product.
Conversely, the advertisements may
be seen by the user as interruptions
or annoyances, or as distractions
from the task at hand.
Some adware is also
shareware, and so the word may
be used as term of distinction to
differentiate between types of
shareware software. What
differentiates adware from other
shareware is that it is primarily
advertising-supported. Users may
also be given the option to pay for
a "registered" or "licensed" copy to
do away with the advertisements.
Adware can also
download and install
PUPs.
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