New in 2008 Edition: Enhanced Rootkit removal system, improved threat detection (spyware, adware, trojans, hijackers, fraud tools and rogue apps, password stealers, and keyloggers), faster updates and scans, less resource usage for optimal computer performance, new Lavasoft ThreatWork submission tool, improved compatibility with Windows Vista (32- and 64-bit); Release Notes - Last Updated: 05.27.08 (2008 v7.1.0.8)
Upgrade Meter:3
New in v7.0.x:
Redesigned engine (all-new program architecture) and user interface, improved Code Sequence Identification (CSI) technology (for precise detection of embedded malware, TrackSweep feature (easily erase tracks left behind while surfing the Web on Internet Explorer, Firefox and Opera with one easy click), including known and emerging threats), incremental definition file updates, multiple browser support (Internet Explorer, Firefox, or Opera), user-controlled spyware removal, system restore points, various other enhancements and bug fixes; Release Notes - Last Updated: 04.03.08 (v7.0.2.7)
Upgrade Meter:5
New in v1.06: New extensive revision to the Threat Assessment Chart (TAC) (improved with a more fine grained technical analysis of the target criteria, which aids users to better understand why applications are detected by Ad-Aware), faster disk scans (roughly 30% faster), more efficient CSI scans, new 'Scan for low risk threats' option, various other minor enhancements and bug fixes; Release Notes - Last Updated: 04.04.07 (v1.06r1)
Upgrade Meter:4
New in SE v1.05: Ad-Aware SE v1.0x is the successor to Ad-Aware v6, and adds a variety of new features and technologies, including a new scanning engine with Code Sequence Identification (CSI) technology for faster and more thorough scans. In addition to protecting the user from known content, CSI technology delivers advanced protection against many unknown variants.
The new SE version also offers the capability to scan and list Alternate Data Streams (ADS) in NTFS enabled volumes as well as a number of other new features and enhancements, including:
command line parameters that allow for silent and automated operation of Ad-Aware
improved Graphical UI
extended Memory scanning
hardened against third party uninstall with encrypted preference files
UNC support for remote storage of Preferences, definitions, and log files
new results screens and detailed statistics
new safety option that allows you to write protect sensitive system files such as the Hosts file
scanning of Cabinet files (including spanned archives)
much smaller reference files for Ad-Aware and Ad-Watch
Ad-Aware now supports custom graphical Skins
more aggresive pop-up blocking and cookie blocking in Ad-Watch
New in v6.0 Build 181: Smart scan mode (for optimized detection), up to 400% faster than previous releases, improved in-depth scan, improved deep registry scan, conditional scanning, HOSTS file scanning, improved Browser Hijacker detection; Release Notes - Last Updated: 07.09.07 (v7.0.1.5)
Upgrade Meter:4
Pros: Quick and efficient scanning, freeware version (for non-commercial purposes), automatic update options, easy to use, numerous configuration options
Cons: Doesn't offer protection against or scanning capabilities for spyware or viruses, some utilities with adware components will fail to work properly if the adware components are removed, real-time adware scanning (Ad-Watch) not available in freeware edition
