Surfing the Internet can be informative, educational and just plain fun. Although some pop-up windows are legitimate and helpful, many are not.
Pop-ups can slow down surfing, expose users to malicious software and inundate users with annoying ads. Simply put, pesky pop-up or pop-under windows can disrupt a user’s surfing experience. Pop-under windows, similar to pop-ups, open a new window underneath the main browser and are often not seen until the user closes the browser. Both may display images and messages that prompt users to download unnecessary or malicious software, while others may be inappropriate for children to see.
There are many pop-up blockers on the market today. Some allow users to block all pop-ups, some temporarily allow them, while others include an allowed list. Some browsers now include pop-up blockers as part of the browser application. There are also several additional toolbars that include a blocking feature.
Although not all pop-ups can be eliminated, the following toolbars and applications can help stop and block unwanted pop-up windows from interfering with a pleasurable and care-free surfing experience.
Downloads:
- Right Utilities Hitware Pop-up Killer Lite - This small download is for Internet Explorer users. Running quietly in the system tray, this no-frills application eliminates both pop-up and pop-under windows before they appear. There is no black list to keep track of but does include a white list. A pro version is available that offers more features. This program is compatible with Microsoft Internet Explorer and supports Windows Vista, XP and 2000.
- Pop-It Dead - This free download is a simple and straightforward pop-up blocker. Once installed, the utility sits quietly in the computer system tray.
- Windows SP2 – A free pop-up blocker is included in Windows Service Pack 2. Once installed, the pop-up blocker is automatically turned on. To adjust the settings, simply open Internet Explorer, click on "Tools", "Pop-up Blocker" and "Blocker Settings."
Free Toolbars:
- Yahoo Toolbar – This free toolbar from Yahoo offers many helpful features including voice mail alerts, bookmark tools and a free pop-up blocker. The blocking feature is available for Internet Explorer only. To turn the feature on or off, simply click the “enable pop-up blocker” feature on the menu.
- Google Toolbar – Many helpful and useful features are included in the Google Toolbar, including a translator, spell checker, handy word find and free pop-up blocker. Depending on what version of the toolbar is installed, to enable the blocker, click “settings” from the toolbar. Click “options”, “more” “enable pop-up blocker” and “OK” to save. The Google Toolbar is compatible with Microsoft Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox browsers.
Eliminate annoying and pesky pop-ups and pop-under windows with a free pop-up blocker.
