junkware
Unwanted bundled software
Junkware is unwanted software that comes pre-installed on new computers or bundled with other downloads.
Unlike malware, junkware isn't necessarily malicious—it's just useless clutter: trial versions of programs, manufacturer utilities, browser toolbars.
My new laptop came loaded with junkware I had to spend an hour removing.
Loaded before purchase
- trialwareTime-limited software version
- crapwareUseless preloaded programs
- shovelwareLow-effort bulk software
- toolbarsInterface button arrays
add-ons · extensions · plugins · widgets · default apps · nagware · bundled · non-essential
Promotional software nuisance
- virusMicroscopic infectious agent
- keyloggerSoftware recording typed input
- rootkitHidden unauthorized access software
- wormLimbless soil invertebrate
ransomware · scareware · backdoor · hijacker · botnet · PUP · exploit · phishing
Automatic appearing windows
- notificationsAutomated messages announcing events
- aggressiveHostile and confrontational
- invasiveEncroaching without welcome
- persistentContinuing despite difficulty
unwelcome · annoying · disruptive · obnoxious · pesky · irritating · interruptive · unauthorized
Delete installed software
- cleanupRestoration of order
- debloatRemove unnecessary bloat
- quarantineIsolation preventing disease transmission
- scanBrief visual sweep
detection · antivirus · system restore · safe mode · task manager · control panel · Malwarebytes · CCleaner
preinstalled
Loaded before purchase
- trialwareTime-limited software version
- crapwareUseless preloaded programs
- shovelwareLow-effort bulk software
toolbars · add-ons · extensions · plugins · widgets · default apps · nagware · bundled · non-essential
adware
Promotional software nuisance
- virusMicroscopic infectious agent
- keyloggerSoftware recording typed input
- rootkitHidden unauthorized access software
worm · ransomware · scareware · backdoor · hijacker · botnet · PUP · exploit · phishing · infected
popups
Automatic appearing windows
- notificationsAutomated messages announcing events
- aggressiveHostile and confrontational
- invasiveEncroaching without welcome
persistent · unwelcome · annoying · disruptive · obnoxious · pesky · irritating · interruptive · unauthorized · nonconsensual
uninstall
Delete installed software
- cleanupRestoration of order
- debloatRemove unnecessary bloat
- quarantineIsolation preventing disease transmission
scan · detection · antivirus · system restore · safe mode · task manager · control panel · Malwarebytes · CCleaner · factory reset