Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

AdwCleaner VS ComboFix

Compare AdwCleaner VS ComboFix and see what are their differences

AdwCleaner logo AdwCleaner

AdwCleaner is a free removal tool for : Adware (ads softwares)

ComboFix logo ComboFix

Combofix is a free anti-malware program developed by sUBs for Windows computers
  • AdwCleaner Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-17
  • ComboFix Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-10-13

AdwCleaner features and specs

  • Efficiency
    AdwCleaner is highly effective at detecting and removing adware, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), browser toolbars, and other types of unwanted software.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software features a simplistic and intuitive interface that makes it easy for users of all experience levels to navigate and use.
  • Lightweight
    AdwCleaner is a lightweight tool that does not require installation, meaning it can be run directly from the executable, consuming minimal system resources.
  • Free to Use
    The tool is available for free, making it accessible to users looking for a cost-effective way to clean up their systems from unwanted software.
  • Frequent Updates
    AdwCleaner is regularly updated to keep up with the latest threats, ensuring a higher success rate in detecting new adware and other PUPs.

Possible disadvantages of AdwCleaner

  • Limited Scope
    AdwCleaner primarily focuses on adware and PUPs, meaning it is not designed to replace more comprehensive antivirus or antimalware solutions.
  • Manual Removal
    Some detections require manual intervention to fully remove, which can be cumbersome for less technically savvy users.
  • Potential False Positives
    Occasionally, AdwCleaner may flag legitimate software as unwanted, which requires the user to carefully review the detections before removing any items.
  • Limited Customer Support
    As a free tool, AdwCleaner offers limited customer support options compared to paid security solutions, potentially leaving users without expert assistance.
  • Windows Compatibility Only
    AdwCleaner is currently only available for Windows operating systems, excluding users on macOS or Linux from utilizing this tool.

ComboFix features and specs

  • Effective Malware Removal
    ComboFix is known for its ability to effectively remove a wide range of malware, including viruses, spyware, and rootkits. It is designed to specifically target and eliminate malware that may be difficult to remove with standard antivirus solutions.
  • Advanced Cleaning
    ComboFix performs deep cleaning of the system, addressing not just the symptoms but also the root causes of malware infections. It identifies and removes malicious files and registry entries that might be hidden from regular scans.
  • Free Tool
    ComboFix is a free tool, making it accessible for users who need an advanced malware removal solution without the cost of premium antivirus software.

Possible disadvantages of ComboFix

  • Complex Interface
    ComboFix is a tool designed for advanced users. Its command-line interface and lack of a graphical user interface (GUI) can be intimidating for novices and those not familiar with advanced system operations.
  • Risk of System Damage
    Due to its deep cleaning capabilities, using ComboFix without proper knowledge can result in unintended consequences, including system instability or damage if critical files are mistakenly removed.
  • Limited Operating System Compatibility
    ComboFix is primarily compatible with older versions of Windows, which limits its use for users on the latest Windows operating systems.
  • Lack of Real-Time Protection
    ComboFix is not a replacement for antivirus software as it lacks real-time protection. It is a reactive tool, meaning it is used after an infection has occurred rather than providing ongoing protection.

AdwCleaner videos

AdwCleaner Test & Review 2019 - Does It Match Up With Other Free Tools? Lets Find Out!

More videos:

  • Review - ADWcleaner review
  • Tutorial - AdwCleaner Tutorial & Review

ComboFix videos

Combofix Review

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to AdwCleaner and ComboFix)
Security & Privacy
73 73%
27% 27
Cyber Security
73 73%
27% 27
Antivirus
83 83%
17% 17
Malware Protection
59 59%
41% 41

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare AdwCleaner and ComboFix

AdwCleaner Reviews

We have no reviews of AdwCleaner yet.
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ComboFix Reviews

Malwarebytes Alternative [ Best 10 Alternative Antivirus Software ]
It is a malware identifying platform that can scan and detect the malware and other viruses which a user needs to remove from the computer. It also protects the PC against the infections or against hijackers, ComboFix is best for all protection purposes. It was designed as the antivirus program but now an expert in fighting against malware.
Source: icodemate.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, AdwCleaner seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 5 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

AdwCleaner mentions (5)

  • Help with opensubtitles removal
    From my online research, this program seem to be a PUP, try using Malwarebytes adwcleaner (https://malwarebytes.com/adwcleaner/). Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Search Engine Reroutes, nothing fixes it
    Disable all of your chrome extensions one by one to see if you can find the culprit. Run adwcleaner from Malwarebytes (https://malwarebytes.com/adwcleaner/) in the settings make sure the switch to reset the hosts file is enablee, then hitmanpro (https://www.sophos.com/en-us/free-tools/hitmanpro). Source: almost 2 years ago
  • I need some help.
    If there are none, try scanning for Malware using the ADWCleaner. Source: almost 3 years ago
  • Malware/adware issue on macbook Google chrome
    Check for fishy add-ins first and uninstall them.Otherwise try Malwarebytes AdwCleaner (free). Source: about 3 years ago
  • Hi, hope you're all doing okay and still kicking. What is the best AntiVirus for a laptop?
    I only use Microsoft Defender , with good extension uBlock Origin and Poper Blocker. With adwcleaner from time to time . Source: over 3 years ago

ComboFix mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of ComboFix yet. Tracking of ComboFix recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing AdwCleaner and ComboFix, you can also consider the following products

Malwarebytes - Malwarebytes protects you against malware, ransomware, and other advanced online threats that have made antivirus obsolete and ineffective. Free Anti-Malware & Malware .

Spybot - Search & Destroy - Spybot Search & Destroy is an anti-malware, adware and antivirus program for safe removal of the threats from the PC and browser.

Windows Security - Windows 10 security delivers built-in & ongoing protections you can trust: Windows Defender Antivirus, firewall, family settings, ransomware protection, real-time protection & more. Stay up to date & protected at no extra cost.

SUPERAntiSpyware - Superantispyware protects you against malware, ransomware, and spyware. Get started today with free trial and remove Spyware, Rootkits, Spyware, Adware, Worms, Parasite!

NoDistribute - NoDistribute is an online tool that lets you scan files for viruses without any result distribution.

HitmanPro - HitmanPro is an on-demand malware scanner and removal tool.