Toolbars: A Help or a Hindrance?

Browser toolbars are extensions that add functionality. They first appeared in the early 1990s from software programs like Word. It didn't take long for third-party toolbars to become available. You will see people add so many toolbars that they barely have any space to view the site they are on because the toolbars take up so much space, Many are completely useless; you can check many of the things they offer without them. Besides taking up space, toolbars can make your browsing experience slower by hogging resources and track your browsing.

Spyware is a common problem associated with toolbars. Many collect anonymous data about your browsing habits for their own use or to sell. Some toolbar publishers let you control the data they can collect during installation, but few people notice this step. In rare cases, unscrupulous publishers say they won't collect or sell your data, but they do anyway. Read through all the fine print before installing, which hardly anyone ever does.

A toolbar could also contain malware, including a keylogging program or a virus. Dangerous toolbars can steal your passwords and your identity. Knowing how to spot a malicious toolbar is important. If you notice you have a new homepage or default search engine, this is a problem. You may also notice unwanted popup ads that appear suspicious. Toolbars can also be malicious if they slow down your PC.

Even if you have a toolbar from a reputable publisher, consider removing it if you don't need the added functionality. A toolbar can leave you vulnerable to attack as they are often less secure that other programs you can download. You can remove most unwanted toolbars by accessing your control panel and looking under Programs and Features. Select the Uninstall/Remove choice. Change your passwords afterward. You may also have to change your default search engine and start page if these were altered. For more information click here https://v.redd.it/vs3d2ta5ird71.