I am so pleased that you have downloaded and are using Ad-aware 6.xx.  The purpose of this application is very important.  Many of the URL's that we open while surfing the Internet, contain adware and spyware files that are embedded into our computer system files .  

The purposes of these unwanted system files at the very least  is to mine data about us from our computer use.  That is, they can track everything we do and this is an invasion of private security.  The Ad-aware application is one of the highest ranked anti-adware and anti-spyware applications available.  

Most folks download Ad-aware Personal Edition which is freeware.  There are also editions that can be purchased.  The next step up from Ad-aware Personal is Ad-aware Plus.  There are several enhancements in the Plus Edition with perhaps the most important being that Plus scans, detects and deletes adware/spyware automatically when you are surfing the web.  The Personal Edition requires that you perform manual scans to detect, and manual commands to delete the adware/spyware detected.  

If you can afford it, I highly recommend you purchase the Ad-aware Plus Edition.

This help file is for those using the Ad-aware Personal Edition.

ILLUSTRATION #1

Pre-scan must do:  As the text box encourages, "Always check for reference file updates before you being a scan".  Ad-aware is very good about being on top of things and very frequently have new reference files for just discovered new adware/spyware. By performing this task, you will assured that the most current references files will available for Ad-aware to use during the manual scan of your system files.

ILLUSTRATION #2

For the most thorough scanning results, ensure that the illustrated scan modes are selected.

ILLUSTRATION #3

Now that you have completed your scan, what do you do next?

#1: These nasty little critters, named Data Miner, have been detected and I suggest you error on the side of ensuring that you remove them.  However, if you know what application/URL they are associated with, then you can opt not to delete them (A discussion for a future help file)

#2:  To delete this nasty critters, click on the boxes to the far left of each Data Miner you wish to delete.

#3: Now click next and follow the instructions and... WAA LAA!, you have cleaned your systems files of adware/spyware.

 How often should you perform the Ad-aware scan?  That is dependent on your personal choice.  However, perform the task at a very minimum of once per week.  

You can set up Ad-aware in your Windows Task Scheduler to open Ad-aware weekly or everyday, which ever your choice is.  This can be important as it will provide you with a reminder that it has been a week since you last performed a scan. 

I do hope that this help file has been of use to you.  If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to email me privately.  I will do my best to help you further.

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