Malwarebytes AdwCleaner review

AdwCleaner solves the most common reason people think their PC is infected: a browser that keeps redirecting, a homepage that changed by itself, and pop-ups that will not stop. Malwarebytes built it solely to detect and remove adware, potentially unwanted programs and browser hijackers, and it is free. That narrow focus is both its strength and its limit. Malwarebytes' own FAQ is clear that AdwCleaner targets adware and PUPs, while Malwarebytes Free is the more complete cleanup tool that also removes viruses, trojans, botnets and ransomware. So run AdwCleaner when the symptoms are in the browser, and run a full scanner when files are encrypted, accounts are being hijacked or the PC behaves strangely outside the browser. It gives no ongoing protection, and Malwarebytes asks users to check its regional restrictions page. As a free, fast fix for junkware it is hard to beat.

Who it is for

PCs with a hijacked homepage, unwanted toolbars or constant pop-ups.

Price

Free.

Malwarebytes AdwCleaner: Free Adware Removal Tool
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 10, 2026.

Key features

• Removes adware, PUPs and browser hijackers
• Targets changed browser homepages and redirects
• Built solely to detect and remove unwanted programs and junkware
• Used by home users and technicians
• Pairs with Malwarebytes Free for broader malware cleanup

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Free and focused on one common problem
• Strength: Simple enough for a first-time user
• Strength: Good companion to a full malware scanner
• Weakness: Does not target viruses, trojans or ransomware
• Weakness: No real-time protection
• Weakness: Check Malwarebytes' regional restrictions before relying on it

Key facts

• Targets: Adware, PUPs, browser hijackers
• Price: Free
• Maker: Malwarebytes
• Reviews cited by vendor: 20,000+ reviews, 4.8 star average

Where it ranks

Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is No. 7 in our Best Malware Removal Tools verdict.