What is Bloatware and How to Remove it

Bloatware is a potentially unwanted program (PUP) that can affect your devices, including your PC and laptop. You might have never heard of bloatware before, but don’t worry.

In this blog, we will explain what bloatware is, how you can spot bloatware, and how to remove bloatware. By the end of this blog, you should be better informed of what bloatware means and how it can be removed. So, without further ado, let’s jump right into the meaning of bloatware!

What is Bloatware?

As previously mentioned, bloatware is a potentially harmful application that is often preinstalled or preloaded into the device by the manufacturer or carrier themselves. Any program that you did not install on the device yourself when you received it can be considered bloatware.

You might be thinking, “If the manufacturer installed it, why is it harmful?” – and the answer to this question is that bloatware tends to slow down devices. After all, the more programs that are installed on your device, the more computing power is required, taking up memory space.

There are also instances in which the bloatware could have been downloaded by a third party. Nonetheless, bloatware can leave devices vulnerable to security risks!

Types of Bloatware

There are different types of bloatware to be aware of, such as:

  • Adware – advertising software that’s responsible for the continuous pop-up ads
  • Trialware – trial-based software made by third parties who pay the manufacturers to preinstall it on new devices
  • Utilities and Applications – preinstalled stock apps that take up space in your device, but aren’t necessarily used often
  • Toolbars – browser menus that are challenging to remove

Signs of Bloatware on Your Device

There are several signs that could indicate that a program is bloatware. This includes:

  • Constant pop-ups
  • Difficult to uninstall
  • Has no real function
  • Unknown or unfamiliar program
  • App wants you to make purchases

If you notice these signs above, then it is possible that your device may have bloatware installed.

How to Get Rid of Bloatware

So, how do you get rid of bloatware on your PC or laptop? Fortunately, with the right program, you can remove bloatware easily and effectively. This is where iolo and our array of high quality products come in. The most effective way to remove bloatware from your device is to invest in a bloatware removal software such as iolo’s Malware Killer and System Mechanic® Ultimate Defense™.

iolo’s Malware Killer

Malware Killer is an anti-malware solution that is designed to identify and instantly remove any malware (and malicious bloatware) that could affect your computer. Key features of Malware Killer include:

  • Immediate eradication of threats
  • New threat identification, including unknown threats/new strains of malware
  • Fast threat detection
  • And more…

In fact, Malware Killer is the ideal solution for devices that may have already been infected with malware or bloatware as it can remove these on demand.

iolo’s System Mechanic® Ultimate Defense™

For a more comprehensive approach to removing bloatware and protecting your PC, iolo’s System Mechanic® Ultimate Defense™ is the solution for you. With all of the features of Malware Killer included, you can count on System Mechanic® Ultimate Defense™ to effectively remove bloatware without a hassle.

Plus, it also comes with additional features to take advantage of, such as:

  • Privacy customization
  • Password management
  • PC speed boosts and resource optimization
  • File and folder recovery
  • Permanent file deletion
  • And more…

As you can see, System Mechanic® Ultimate Defense™ is the perfect product for not only removing bloatware on your computer, but to also enhance your overall user experience.

By getting rid of the bloatware on your PC, you can expect increased memory space and storage, as well as improved performance when it comes to your PC’s operating speed. Removing bloatware also reduces the likelihood of malware infiltrating your system due to security vulnerabilities.

So, if you believe that your computer might have bloatware installed, what are you waiting for?

Optimize PC Performance with iolo

Understanding what bloatware is, how to identify it, and how to get rid of bloatware, are essential to your computer’s security, performance, and longevity.

With iolo’s Malware Killer and System Mechanic® Ultimate Defense™, rest assured that your computer will be protected against bloatware and malware. If you are looking to remove bloatware from your Windows 11 or 10 PC, iolo’s solutions have got you covered.

Optimize your PC’s performance with iolo’s wide range of anti-malware and PC security products that are designed to detect and eliminate malware and bloatware from your PC.

Browse our full range of products today or get in touch with us to learn more about our services.

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What is iolo's Whole Home License?

The Whole Home License® is iolo’s licensing policy that allows you to install and keep your software running on all of your compatible devices within the same home. Previously, users were allowed to install and license their iolo software simultaneously on a maximum of three PCs. Under the Whole Home License, a single activation key allows you to use your iolo software on all of your PCs, other than any PCs you use for business purposes. What you need to know about Whole Home Licensing

  • You, your spouse, and your relatives living within the same household may use the same license on any number of PCs that you own which are not used for business.
  • For full legal terms and conditions, see https://www.iolo.com/company/legal/eula/

To install your iolo product on additional PCs:

  1. On the additional computer, download the latest version of your iolo product. Choose from the list of downloads offered here.
  2. Follow the steps in the installation wizard, and enter the same Activation Key that you used to install on your original computer.

You can view the Activation Key on the original computer from within System Mechanic > red menu bar > key icon > Activation Key.