What Is Bloatware
Purchasing a new device can be exciting as it provides faster and more efficient work, learning, and entertainment opportunities with plenty of storage space. However, despite its safety measures, a new device is still vulnerable to bloatware - unwanted software that can significantly affect its performance and storage capacity.
Bloatware can attack both Microsoft and Android systems and even Apple iPhones and Macs, although Apple devices have more built-in protection. In this article, we will define bloatware, give some common examples, explain how to identify it, and discuss its impact on your computer's security.
Bloatware, also known as Junkware or Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs), are third-party applications that can slow down your device's performance and make it vulnerable to cybersecurity risks. While manufacturers initially introduced bloatware to offer users more utility, the programs caused more harm than good. These software programs run in the background, making it challenging to locate and remove them.
Bloatware can find its way onto your device in two ways: pre-installed on your device or downloaded through the internet. Lenovo's Superfish bloatware scandal in 2015 serves as an example of how bloatware can harm your device.
Examples of bloatware apps include weather checking, finance/money, gaming/sports, map or navigation, fitness/health, messaging or video, music listening and recording, toolbars, junk-browser extensions, system update, fake cleaner, and productivity assistants.
To optimize your device's performance, it's best to uninstall any of these apps that are no longer in use, regardless of whether you use an Android smartphone, Windows computer, or an iOS device.
Symptoms of bloatware on a device can include a decrease in performance, longer boot-up times, storage issues, and delays in startup. There are different types of programs that may be considered bloatware, including:
- Utilities: These programs are often pre-installed on new devices and provide additional functionality to users. Examples include weather apps, music apps, and productivity apps.
- Trialware: This is a type of bloatware that comes with new devices for free but requires a license purchase after a set trial period. Some trialware can be removed easily, while others are more difficult to uninstall.
- Adware: This software downloads or displays advertising material such as banners or pop-ups.
To identify bloatware on your device, look for anonymous apps that you don't remember installing and delete unnecessary ones. If you receive bothersome upsells while using an app, it could be a sign of bloatware. Also, if you experience numerous pop-up ads that redirect you to unsafe websites, it's likely that you have adware on your device. Adware is usually downloaded from the web and can modify your homepage, tab settings, and browser setup.
How can bloatware affect your computer's security?
Although not all bloatware is a threat to your device, a significant portion of it can slow down your computer and pose security risks. Bloatware runs in the background, taking up valuable disk space and draining battery life. If not removed promptly, it can fill your device with intrusive ads, which can pose a security risk or even corrupt your operating system.
Can bloatware be removed?
Uninstalling bloatware can be challenging as it often reappears on the device, sometimes even after it has been deleted. Some fake bloatware removal websites offer malicious removal tools that can further harm your device. Unfortunately, there is no foolproof way to prevent bloatware from finding its way into your system.
Pro tip: Always download software from official sources like the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or secured websites. Installing programs from untrustworthy websites can put your device at risk as they may download additional software bundles without your knowledge.
Windows 10 includes a special refresh tool that removes bloatware posing as user-installed programs. However, it's important to check your hard drive beforehand as it may also remove licenses.
Protecting your computer from harmful and annoying bloatware is crucial to ensure its longevity. Installing an antivirus program can be a solution to this problem. By doing so, you can safeguard your computer from security threats and prevent accidental downloads that may give way to malicious bloatware or malware.
Bloatware can compromise your online safety and security. To prevent this, SafeNetClub offers a comprehensive protection package that is perfect for your new device. With SafeNetClub 's protection, you can work without any worries or doubts.
