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Difference between Virus and Adware

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1. Virus :
A virus is a malicious executable code attached to another executable file which can be harmless or can modify or delete data. When the computer program runs attached with virus it perform some action such as deleting a file from the computer system. Virus can’t be controlled by remote.

2. Adware :
Adware is not exactly malicious but they do breach privacy of the users for malicious purpose. They display ads (a pop up window appear) on computer’s desktop or inside individual programs. They mainly come attached with free to use software, thus main source of revenue for such developers. They basically monitor your interests and display relevant ads. An attacker may embed malicious code inside the software and adware can monitor your system activities and can even compromise your machine.



Difference between Virus and Adware :

S.No. VIRUS ADWARE
1. A Virus is a malicious executable code attached to another executable file which can be harmless or can modify or delete data. Adware is similar to a spyware and it can be both intrusive and difficult to eradicate.
2. The main objective of virus is to modify the information. The main objective of adware is to monitor your interests and display relevant ads.
3. Antivirus software are used for protection against viruses. Adware can be detected and removed by the antivirus program.
4. It can control data and resources, cause error, destroy system and slow down the performance. It provides profit to the developer by generating online advertisement.
5. Viruses are executed via executable files. It is unknowingly attached with free to use software, distributed through pop-up windows.
6. Virus is more harmful. Adware is less harmful than virus.
7. Resident and Non -resident viruses are two types of Virus. Fireball, Appearch, Gator and dollarrevenue are some of the examples of adware.


Last Updated : 22 Sep, 2020
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