In today’s digital environment, users frequently encounter unwanted applications like adware, toolbars, browser hijackers, and other potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) that negatively impact system performance and user experience. While many antivirus solutions focus on more serious threats like trojans or ransomware, they often overlook these minor, yet irritating and privacy-invading applications.
This is where Malwarebytes AdwCleaner 8.0.5 steps in — a portable, no-installation-required tool designed specifically to eliminate adware and PUPs quickly and effectively. With over a decade of trusted service, AdwCleaner has become an essential tool for IT technicians, support agents, and everyday users seeking to clean and restore their systems with ease.
🔍 What is Malwarebytes AdwCleaner?
Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is a free software utility developed by Malwarebytes, a leader in cybersecurity products. It focuses on detecting and removing:
- Adware
- Browser toolbars
- Browser hijackers
- Unwanted browser extensions
- Preinstalled software (commonly known as bloatware)
- Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs)
Unlike traditional antivirus tools, which prioritize viruses and spyware, AdwCleaner zeroes in on software that affects browser settings, displays intrusive ads, or alters your system’s behavior for commercial gain.
🌟 What’s New in AdwCleaner 8.0.5?
Released on May 25, 2020, version 8.0.5 is a robust and stable edition. It brought multiple under-the-hood enhancements to improve performance and security. Here’s a breakdown of the key updates:
🔧 Core Software Enhancements
- Updated Qt Framework to 5.14.1
Improves the software’s graphical user interface (GUI), making it more responsive and compatible with newer Windows versions. - Updated OpenSSL to 1.1.1g
Ensures secure connections to Malwarebytes’ update servers, reducing vulnerabilities in network communication. - Updated UPX to 3.96
Improves compression of the software executable, making it faster to load and more efficient in memory usage. - Definitions Update to 2020.05.13.1
The malware and PUP signature database was updated to ensure the tool can detect the latest threats.
🧪 Bug Fixes and Optimizations
- Increased compatibility with Windows 10 builds and updates.
- Improved scanning speed and accuracy.
- Reduced false positives on legitimate software.
- Refined detection for newer pre-installed manufacturer software that behaves suspiciously.
🛡️ Key Features of Malwarebytes AdwCleaner 8.0.5
1. No Installation Required (Portable Use)
You can run AdwCleaner straight from a USB drive or folder. It’s portable, making it ideal for:
- Cleaning systems on the go
- Running scans on client PCs
- Restoring performance in emergencies
2. Adware and Toolbar Removal
Detects and removes all kinds of adware that display pop-ups, redirect browsers, or install unwanted toolbars/extensions without consent.
3. PUPs and Browser Hijacker Detection
Helps you get rid of PUPs that are often bundled with freeware or pirated software. It also reverses browser homepage hijacks and search engine changes.
4. Preinstalled Software Removal
Targets bloatware that comes preloaded by PC manufacturers (often slowing down new computers). These can now be safely removed using the software.
5. Detailed Scan Reports
After each scan, you’ll get a complete breakdown of what was found. Logs are saved locally and can be reviewed to analyze system changes over time.
6. Advanced Cleaning Options
- Whitelist safe software
- Custom cleanup
- Create backups of deleted items
- Auto-restart to finish certain removals
7. Multilingual Support
Supports multiple languages, allowing users worldwide to comfortably navigate and use the application.
🖥️ System Requirements
AdwCleaner is extremely lightweight and compatible with most Windows systems. It doesn’t require heavy processing power or lots of memory.
- OS Compatibility:
- Windows 7
- Windows 8 / 8.1
- Windows 10
- Windows 11
- Architecture Support:
- 32-bit and 64-bit versions supported
- Permissions:
- Administrator rights required
- Disk Space:
- At least 20MB of free space
🧰 How to Use Malwarebytes AdwCleaner 8.0.5
- Download the application from the official Malwarebytes website.
- Run the Executable – No installation needed.
- Click “Scan Now” to start scanning your system.
- Review the detection results. Each threat or PUP will be listed.
- Click “Clean & Repair” to remove detected threats.
- Restart your system if prompted.
You can also access advanced settings like quarantine, exclusions, and log files from the main dashboard.
✅ Benefits of Using AdwCleaner
- Fast and Lightweight – Scans take just minutes and won’t slow down your computer.
- Beginner-Friendly – No complex settings or configurations needed.
- Removes Preinstalled Bloatware – Uninstall annoying apps that come with OEM systems.
- Restores Browser Settings – Returns your homepage and search engine to normal.
- Can run from USB – Perfect for IT techs and home users alike.
- No Installation – Great for emergency use or portable troubleshooting.
- Regular Updates – Always updated to combat the newest adware threats.
⚠️ Limitations to Consider
- Not a Full Antivirus – AdwCleaner doesn’t protect against viruses, ransomware, or trojans. It’s meant to complement, not replace, antivirus solutions.
- Manual Use – No auto-scan or real-time protection. You must manually run it.
- Basic UI – While easy to use, advanced users might find the interface lacking in customization options.
- Needs Admin Rights – You must have administrator permissions to run it properly.
🔚 Conclusion
Malwarebytes AdwCleaner 8.0.5 is a powerful, no-nonsense utility focused on one job — identifying and removing adware, bloatware, and PUPs — and it does that job exceptionally well. Whether you’re a casual user, a PC technician, or someone looking to declutter a new computer, this lightweight and portable software can help keep your system clean and your privacy intact.
It’s not meant to be your primary antivirus, but as a complementary tool, AdwCleaner is unmatched in its effectiveness and ease of use. Regular scans can help keep your PC running fast, ad-free, and secure.