Plenty of free Windows software come with junkware packaged into them. Here are some tips to avoid downloading and installing junkware to your Windows PC.

While most of the junkware can be easily uninstalled, sometimes they are capable of changing system settings which can turn into a serious issue. So in this quick explanation, let us see how to avoid downloading and installing junkware in your Windows PC.

Deceptive Banners and Buttons

Fake “Download Now” banners and buttons are very common today in almost every software downloading website. These fake banners and buttons are being so deceptive that a normal Internet user is easily tricked into clicking them. To make matters worse, these fake buttons may trick you into installing a different software rather than the one you intend to. Actually there is no fool-proof way to find these fake download links, but if you hover your mouse over the banner or the button, you will see where the link is pointing to.

Wrapping Installers and Junkware Bundles

It is really a bad practice, but some software developers are trying to earn a few bucks by packing junkware into their installers. A good example would be Adobe and Java who always try to install crapware like McAfee Security Plus and the terrible “Ask Toolbar” by pre-selecting the check boxes in their installers. Always be cautious while you are clicking those “Next” buttons to install the software, and also don’t forget to choose the “Custom Installation” option whenever possible.

Use Junkware Removal Tool

If you think you are already infected by junkware, then do try to uninstall them as quickly as possible using the “Add or Remove Programs” feature in Windows. If you are unable to properly uninstall the junkware, try using Junkware Removal Tool, a free software to scan and remove any potentially unwanted or junk software.