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How to Detect Adware on Windows 11 – Complete Guide 2025​


📅 Published: 2026 | 🏷️ Security, Windows 11, Adware Removal


Is your Windows 11 PC suddenly showing random pop-up ads? Are your browser searches being redirected to unknown websites? You may have adware installed on your system. Adware is one of the most common and annoying forms of malware that silently enters your computer and floods it with unwanted advertisements.

In this guide, we'll walk you through exactly how to detect adware on Windows 11 and remove it completely using both built-in tools and free third-party software.

What is Adware and Why is it Dangerous?​


Adware (advertising-supported software) is software that automatically displays or downloads advertising material when a user is online. While some adware is technically legal (bundled with free software you agreed to install), malicious adware can:

  • Track your browsing habits without consent
  • Slow down your computer significantly
  • Redirect your search results to phishing sites
  • Install additional malware in the background
  • Steal sensitive data like passwords and credit card info


Warning: Some adware disguises itself as a legitimate browser extension or system optimization tool. Never ignore pop-ups asking you to "update Flash" or "install a codec."

Step 1: Check for Suspicious Programs in Windows Settings​


The first place to look is your installed applications list.

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings
  2. Go to Apps → Installed Apps
  3. Sort by Install Date to see recently added software
  4. Look for anything you don't recognize, random names, toolbars, or "optimizer" apps
  5. Right-click and select Uninstall for any suspicious entries

Step 2: Scan with Windows Defender (Built-in)​


Windows 11 comes with Microsoft Defender Antivirus pre-installed, and it can detect most common adware strains.
  1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu
  2. Click Virus & threat protection
  3. Select Scan options
  4. Choose Full scan (not Quick scan)
  5. Click Scan now and wait for it to complete

Pro Tip: Run the scan in Safe Mode for better detection. Press Win + R, type msconfig, go to the Boot tab, and check "Safe boot." Restart and run the scan again.

Step 3: Use Malwarebytes Free (Best Free Tool)​


Malwarebytes is widely considered the best free adware scanner available. It detects threats that Windows Defender often misses.

  1. Download Malwarebytes Free from malwarebytes.com
  2. Install and open the program
  3. Click Scan, it will scan your entire system
  4. Review detected threats and click Quarantine to remove them
  5. Restart your PC when prompted

Step 4: Check Your Browser for Adware Extensions​


Adware frequently hides in browser extensions. Check each browser you use:

Google Chrome​

  1. Open Chrome → click the three dots (⋮) → More tools → Extensions
  2. Remove any extension you didn't install or don't recognize
  3. Also check: chrome://settings/ → Search engine → Make sure it's set to Google or your preferred engine

Microsoft Edge​

  1. Click three dots → Extensions → Manage extensions
  2. Toggle off or remove suspicious extensions

Step 5: Reset Browser Settings to Default​


If pop-ups continue even after removing extensions, reset your browser completely:

  • Chrome: Settings → Reset settings → Restore settings to their original defaults
  • Edge: Settings → Reset settings → Restore settings to their default values
  • Firefox: Help → More troubleshooting information → Refresh Firefox

Step 6: Check Startup Programs​


Adware often adds itself to the startup to run every time Windows boots.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
  2. Click the Startup apps tab
  3. Look for unknown programs with high startup impact
  4. Right-click and select Disable for anything suspicious

Step 7: Run AdwCleaner for Deep Cleaning​


AdwCleaner (by Malwarebytes) is a specialized free tool specifically built to remove adware, toolbars, and unwanted browser hijackers.

  1. Download AdwCleaner from the official Malwarebytes website
  2. Run it (no installation needed)
  3. Click Scan Now
  4. Review results and click Clean & Repair
  5. Restart your PC

How to Prevent Adware in the Future​


  • Only download software from official websites
  • Always choose "Custom Install" and uncheck bundled software
  • Keep Windows 11 and all apps updated
  • Use a reputable ad-blocker like uBlock Origin in your browser
  • Never click on "Your PC is infected!" pop-ups — they are scams
  • Scan your PC with Malwarebytes at least once a month

Conclusion​


Detecting and removing adware on Windows 11 is completely doable without paying for expensive software. By combining Windows Defender + Malwarebytes + AdwCleaner, you can eliminate virtually all adware from your system. If pop-ups and redirects continue after following all these steps, consider doing a full Windows 11 reset as a last resort.

Have questions or found a specific adware strain? Leave a reply below, and the community will help you out!