So you have a new Desktop Computer or Laptop you just bought from a big box store……Cool! Time to get on the web (Internet). Many of you out there are so excited to just get on the internet. Heck I was when I got my first real PC. The Excitement of owning a New Computer gets the best of us, however we do not realize that these computers come with programs and applications that are not needed on the computer. These programs are preloaded by the manufacturer of the computers themselves. Some or all have no real function to be there.
Effects Of Bloatware
Simply Put, Bloatware is like Junk Mail or Spam. It has no use in your email. Same Thing here. Computers that are manufactured are synonymous for this. There are many Methods and Programs that can remove them from your PC, Laptop or Tablet. You just have to find the most effective way to do it. I personally prefer to use scripts and powershell to this in Windows. This ensures that the bloatware will be gone from your computer.
Here are some of the effect Bloatware can have on your Computer and Laptops, etc
1. Bloatware can cause performance issues.
You may notice your computer is slow to boot up, slow to react when you click on something, crashes easily, or your battery drains quickly – these are all telltale signs of bloatware. The more of these programs you have operating in the background of your computer every time you boot up, the more space and resources they take up.
What’s more, because bloatware has a tendency to be poorly designed and built on less-than-stellar code, it can clog up your device’s memory more than other types of software.
2. Bloatware can be intrusive.
Adware and toolbars – we’re looking at you here. We’re willing to bet being pummelled by ads is the last thing you want when you go online.
Many applications falling under the bloatware category are guilty of installing extra toolbars on your browser. They do very little other than show you annoying ads, or otherwise interrupt and even redirect your intended online activity.
3. Bloatware can pose a risk to your digital security and privacy.
The main risk posed by certain types of bloatware connecting to the internet? It can lead to the theft of your financial information, such as banking and credit card accounts and passwords.
The criminal hackers who steal this can use it to drain your account or run up fraudulent credit card bills in your name. Or they could sell your account information on the dark web.
If the thought of this has you breaking out into a cold sweat, then keep reading for more on exactly how to avoid this worst-case scenario.
How to remove bloatware from your device
I cannot recommend any one program, it just has to be something you need to research and to find what best work for you.
If you suspect bloatware has compromised your Mac or Windows PC, there are a few steps you can take to remedy the issue yourself.
There are many Sites out there that can show you what is supported to be on your computer and what should not be there.
As I have said before there are many programs out there that you can use and explore to get rid of Bloatware on your Device, My suggestion is read the reviews before proceeding.
How to remove bloatware on Mac
While you’re likely to encounter less instances of bloatware on your Mac, it’s still a good idea to remove any unused applications, especially those you received when you purchased your computer. Follow these steps to remove them:
- Go to Applications.
- Select the application you’re looking to remove. Click Get Info > Sharing and Permissions.
- Press the lock symbol, enter your admin password and select the option to make Read and Write permissions available to everyone.
- At this point, you’ll be able to delete the unwanted application.
A word of caution: be sure none of the programs you’re looking to remove are critical to your macOS. If they are, you’re just introducing a different problem into the mix.
How to remove bloatware on Windows
Looking to give any bloatware you’ve identified on Windows the old heave-ho? Luckily, Windows comes with a built-in uninstaller option through the Start menu. Here’s how to use it:
- Click the Start button.
- Search for the bloatware program you’re looking to remove using the All Apps list on the left-hand side.
- Right-click on the program. You should see an Uninstall option in the pop-up menu.
- Click Uninstall, confirm you’d like to uninstall the program, and you’re done!
Of course, this method doesn’t necessarily work for all kinds of bloatware. If you’re not having any luck with it, then your next best option might be to reset your computer to its original state using System Reset. Remember, this is only effective in removing downloaded programs, not any bloatware already installed on your PC.
How to remove bloatware on Android
Android devices are particular culprits when it comes to bloatware. The best way to approach this problem is by disabling the offending unwanted apps. This way, they will no longer run in the background and affect your RAM usage. However, they will still take up space on your device. To remove them:
- Go to Applications > Settings.
- Tap on Apps and Notifications, pick the app you’re looking to disable and tap Disable.
If you’re thinking about using a third-party tool to make bloatware removal easier, remember this gives them full access to your phone. So make sure you do your research on the most trustworthy providers.
How to remove bloatware on iOS
This one’s quick and easy: you should be able to uninstall most unwanted apps simply by tapping on it, then clicking the X symbol.
How to prevent against bloatware
We told you how to tell if you’ve got bloatware on your computer or device. We told you how to clean up any bloatware if you were affected. But how do we prevent it from happening in the first place? Without further ado, here’s how:
1. Purchase bloatware-free devices
These can be a little on the pricier side, so are not always a viable option, but they do exist. Of course, this option only helps you circumvent bloatware already installed on your device, so remember…
2. Download software directly from the provider
Bloatware (and adware, and malware) often comes hidden when you’re downloading bundled software from other sources.
3. Keep on top of the problem
This means thinking twice before downloading and installing any new software – especially freeware. It might even mean (shock, horror) reading the fine print with an eagle eye to learn exactly what it is you’re inviting into your device in the first place.
4. Download a cybersecurity program capable of working across all your devices
Staying vigilant about what you download will always be your best protection against bloatware. But, thankfully there are plenty of cybersecurity products to give you a helping hand when it comes to keeping the bloat at bay.