Free software is available to download to stop these pesky pop-up ads.

This software can stop pop-up ads appearing which is great because they are incredibly annoying when you are surfing the web.

Some web pages and spyware can create multiple pop-ups so it is definitely worth trying out ways to stop this irritating advertising.

What exactly is a pop-up?

A pop-up is another window that appears in your browser while you are surfing the web. It is usually an advert for a product or service and it just keeps reappearing even when you try to close the pop-up.

What can we do to prevent these ads from popping up all over our browser? Software is the key but finding which software to use is another matter.

Sites like CNET have lots of different programs which stop pop-ups.

Trial Software

StopZilla has a trial version of its pop-up killer, it will take about 15 minutes to download with a 56k modem. This software is available for Windows 98 and above. Popup Killer Info is another site dedicated to stopping pop-up ads.

Here you can read, to your hearts content, information and reviews on pop-up ads as well as downloading software. For mac users out there, we haven't left you out. There's software at this site for you.

Toolbars

Tool bars are now supplied by various Search Engines such as Google, Yahoo!, AltaVista, and MSN.

These toolbars include various features including a pop-up stopper.

Browsers

Some browsers also now come with a pop-up stopper integrated. Some examples are Opera, Mozilla and Netscape.

Free Software

Zero Popup is free and allows you to control pop-up windows. This software is available for Internet Explorer and Netscape.

WebWasher is also free and helps you stop unwanted pop-up ads as well as killing the cookies that enable companies to monitor your browsing habits.

Which one do I choose?

Make an informed decision is the answer. You don't want to download software that might use filters to block web images or that slows your browser down.

You might want software that includes additional features such as a personal privacy report.

Computer magazines regularly write reviews on software and have the latest news on what's available.

Often, they include a CD-Rom with the software on, be careful though; sometimes, the software is only for a 30 day trial and after that you will have to pay.