Those Browser Toolbars
I recently was asked to take a look at a laptop, because the owner complained that it was running super slow and his browser home page suddenly changed on him.
Needless to say, when I fired up the laptop (which took quite some time), I thought OK, here is a computer that has been lacking routine maintenance, and most likely has it's share of malware.
But what surprised me the most, was when I launched his browser (IE). There were several rows of toolbars, so much, that his operating browser window was only 1/3 the size of his laptop screen. Amazing, it was like I was trying to view the browser with a cell phone, lot's of scrolling. But than again, you expect that with a cell phone.
When you use a laptop with a 15" screen, you expect to have more real estate to view. Isn't that why you have a computer instead of a mobile device (cell phone, ipad, etc.)?
To keep things simple and straighforward, I will just give some basic facts and information about browser toolbars. You can read more at this link:
Browser Toolbars - 1st A Blessing, than a curse
Toolbars were originally created to enhance the browser experience and to find shortcuts that may aid your use of the internet. Toolbars usually contain useful widgets that makes your use of the internet more efficient.
Unfortunately, they also have some negative issues:
- Send pop up ads.
- Will change your browser settings.
- Track your surfing habits.
- Use up resources, slow down your browser.
How to prevent toolbar installation:
- During software installation, uncheck the toolbar install.
- Some toolbars may be bundled with the install package, so see below.
How to remove toolbars:
- IE how to disable any unwanted toolbars. Go to:
'View' > 'Toolbars' and uncheck the toolbars that you don't want. - Use Windows Add/Remove feature of Control Panel.
- Use uninstall feature of Toolbar (some toolbars have this).
- In some cases, you need to use a good Malware/Adware software.
I hope this information helps.
Some toolbars are very useful, but those are the ones you purposely installed. However, there are many that seem to appear out of nowhere. These are the toolbars that you need to remove.
Posted: Jan 20, 2012
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