Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Advertiser-supported software is software funded partly or entirely by advertising. Ads can help pay for a free app, but that funding model alone does not tell you whether the software is safe, wanted, or respectful of your choices. The key distinction is whether advertising is disclosed and controlled—or appears through behavior the user did not expect.
What does “advertiser-supported software” mean?
The term describes a business or distribution model: advertising helps fund or promote a software product. Microsoft’s consumer explanation uses “adware” for advertiser-supported software and notes that ads can offset the cost of free software: Microsoft’s adware explainer.
In security classifications, however, “advertising software” can refer more narrowly to what a program does. Microsoft’s Defender criteria include software that displays ads or promotions in other programs, prompts users to take surveys for other products in other software, or inserts ads into webpages: Microsoft’s advertising-software criteria. The funding model and the security label are related, but they are not interchangeable in every context.
Is advertiser-supported software the same as malware?
No. Advertising by itself does not establish that software is malware. Microsoft says potentially unwanted applications (PUAs) are not considered malware in its classification, though they may show unwanted ads, offer unexpected applications, or behave in other ways a user would rather avoid. Microsoft describes malware in terms of harmful behavior such as compromising security, stealing data, or downloading other malware. See Microsoft’s PUA criteria.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible Model(s): Magicmoon brand filter only for 24 inch -diagonally measured - widescreen monitor - aspect ratio 16:9 - filter size: width: 20 15/16", Height: 11 13/16" (531mm x 298mm)
- Superior Privacy: The computer privacy filter makes the screen appear dark when looking at it from an angle (the angle is about 30 to 60 degree), but bright when looking directly at it. To change the privacy level - simply adjust your monitor’s brightness accordingly
- Eye and Screen Protection: Privacy Filter does not only protect your private life but also protects your eyes by blocking 30% of blue light , blocking the harmful blue light between 380 to 495 nm, it filters out the blue light and relieves eye strain
- Perfect For Open Workspaces: Great for maintaining screen privacy in open work spaces
- Includes Two Options: Option 1 uses clear adhesive strips that securely attach to any computer screen. Option 2 (for computer screens with a raised bezel only) uses slide mount tabs that easily stick to the display frame, allowing you to slide the privacy screen filter on and off as needed
It is useful to separate three cases:
- Ordinary ad-supported software: Ads are part of the product or its funding model, and the behavior is explained clearly with reasonable user choice.
- Potentially unwanted advertising behavior: Promotions appear in unrelated programs or webpages, software is bundled without clear disclosure, or users have little control over the ads or removal.
- Malware: Software or code engages in harmful activity, such as stealing data or compromising a device. Ads alone do not prove that this is happening.
How can you tell whether advertising behavior is unwanted?
Look at what the software does, what it told you, and how much control you retain. Microsoft and Google publish policy criteria for their own security or advertising systems; these are useful indicators, not a universal legal definition or a guarantee that a program is safe.
| Check | What to ask | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Ad location | Do ads stay inside the app, or appear in unrelated software or webpages? | Microsoft’s PUA category specifically includes ads displayed in other software and ads inserted into webpages. |
| Disclosure | Did the installer or app clearly explain its purpose and advertising behavior? | Microsoft expects prominent notice of software activity; Google flags misleading descriptions or undisclosed functions in its unwanted-software policy. |
| Choice and control | Could you decline the behavior, stop it, or revoke permission? | Microsoft’s unwanted-software criteria say software should not install without permission or bypass consent controls, and users should be able to start, stop, or revoke authorization. |
| Identification and closing | Can you tell which program displayed an ad, and is there an obvious way to close it? | Microsoft’s consumer explanation says externally promoted ads should identify the program and offer an obvious close method. |
| Uninstall and bundling | Is removal straightforward, and were any additional programs disclosed? | Microsoft calls for a standard uninstall method; Google lists difficult removal and undisclosed bundling as concerns in its policy. |
| Data handling | Does the software explain what it collects or transmits and obtain appropriate consent? | Microsoft’s criteria and Google’s policy address disclosure and consent around data and private information. |
Consent is important, but it is not a blanket assurance that behavior is harmless: the notice could be unclear, the software might do more than it disclosed, or the user may have difficulty exercising control. Google’s policy also flags deceptive functionality descriptions, hidden functions, difficult removal, and undisclosed data practices.
Rank #2
![[2 Pack] 24 Inch Computer Privacy Screen Filter for 16:9 Widescreen Monitor](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41SBKw3J4ML._SL160_.jpg)
- 【24 PRIVACY FILTER DIMENSIONS】 Width: 20 15/16" (20.9 inches/532 mm), Height: 11 13/16" (11.8 inches/299 mm) - 16:9 Aspect Ratio. Mamol computer privacy filters are designed to be perfectly compatible with HP, Samsung, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, Asus, LG, ViewSonic and other brands of monitors. Please check the width and height dimensions of your computer screen before ordering. If you have any questions about the dimensions, please contact us.
- 【ENHANCED PRIVACY PROTECTION】Mamol 24 inch computer privacy filter keeps your electronic information confidential, making it excellent for use in high traffic areas. the computer privacy screen 24 inch is designed with advanced microlouver technology to block visibility at around 30 degrees and black out screens completely near 60 degrees.
- 【EYES PROTECTION】 This blackout privacy screen greatly reduces eye strain and minimizes potential hazards to vision. It filters 99.9% of UV rays and suppresses 98% of blue light. As a reversible 24-inch privacy screen filter: The glossy side of the protector provides extra clarity and greater privacy, and the matte side minimizes glare and distracting reflections. Satisfy your different daily uses as needed.
- 【BETTER HD CLARTIY】Mamol 24 inch computer privacy screen Shield adds an extra layer of AR Ultra HD light transmission compared to others. It maintains the high definition of the screen without sacrificing too much screen brightness. It won't reduce the brightness and cause eye fatigue because of the privacy screen installed on the screen.
- 【ANTI SCRATCH & WASHABLE 】Our privacy anti-glare Monitor film has a surface enhancement layer to protect the privacy filter from scratches and fingerprints. It is washable and reusable. Even after prolonged use, you will get a brand new privacy screen for your desktop computer monitor after cleaning. Very Durable!
What should you do if ads appear unexpectedly?
Unexpected ads are a reason to investigate, not proof of a particular diagnosis. The FTC lists changed homepages or unexpected redirects, unfamiliar browser toolbars or add-ons, and many pop-ups on sites where they are not expected as possible malware symptoms. Those signs do not establish that a specific app is advertiser-supported or that a device is infected. See the FTC’s malware guidance.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
- Review recently installed apps and browser add-ons, including anything installed alongside another program.
- Check the app’s disclosure and settings, then use its normal controls to disable promotions or remove the app if you do not want it.
- Use updated security software to check for unwanted or malicious behavior. The FTC advises against downloading software by clicking an ad; go directly to the provider’s address instead, and avoid unfamiliar download sites and peer-to-peer sources.
- On Windows, check the protections available for your version and configuration. Microsoft’s PUA support instructions reviewed here apply to Windows 10 and describe app and download blocking. Defaults and menus can differ by version and configuration. Microsoft also says Windows 11 includes Smart App Control, which can help protect against PUAs; see Windows Security support.
Why the distinction matters
Advertising can be a legitimate way to support software, but users should be able to understand what they are installing and control what it does. The Microsoft Malware Protection Center put the user-impact concern this way in a 2014 policy explanation: “Programs that promote a product or service outside of their own program can interfere with your computing experience.” The same post states: “You should have clear choice and control when installing programs that open advertisements.” See Microsoft’s 2014 explanation; its current criteria are the more relevant reference for present classification.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- [How To Determine The Screen Size]: Before Purchasing Our 24 inch privacy screen for monitor, Please Measure The Size Of Your Computer Screen First. Our computer privacy screen 24 inch Is Suitable For Computer Screens With A Width Of 20.92 Inches (53.13 Cm), A Height Of 11.77 Inches (29.89 Cm), And A Diagonal Length Of 24 Inches (60.96 Cm). (It Is Not Recommended To Choose The Size Only Based On The Diagonal Length.) The ZOEGAA 24-Inch 16:9 computer privacy screen Is Compatible With HP, Samsung, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, ASUS, Viewsonic And Other 24-Inch 16:9 Computer Monitors. Welcome To Your Purchase!
- [Outstanding Privacy Effect]: The Engineer Team Of ZOEGAA Has Collected Suggestions From Over 5,000 Computer Users And Corrected The Anti-Peep Viewing Angle Of The Micro-Blind Optical Technology For 35,462 Times To Ensure That The View Beyond ±30 Degrees Will Be Hidden. People On Your Left And Right Will See A Black Screen.
- [How To Install]: ZOEGAA 24 inch monitor privacy screen Supports 2 Installation Methods. The First One Is The Insert Type Installation, Which Is removable. The Second One Is The Mounting Adhesive Installation, Which Is Non-Detachable. For Detailed Installation Methods, Please Refer To The Pictures Or Videos In The Listing.
- [Better Clarity]: ZOEGAA privacy screen 24 inch monitor. It Has Added An AR High-Definition Light-Transmitting Layer, Which Enables The computer monitor privacy screen To Maintain Its Original Clarity While Achieving The Anti-Spy Effect; It Will Not Cause Eye Fatigue Due To The Installation Of The privacy screen for monitor.
- [Reversible Glossy And Matte Surfaces]: The 24 in privacy screen for monitor Of ZOEGAA Has Two Different Surface Textures - The Glossy Surface Offers Better Anti-Peeping Effect, While The Matte Surface Provides Better Anti-Glare Performance. The Matte Surface Is Suitable For Use In Strong Light Environments. This 24 inch monitor privacy screen Also Has Anti-scratch And Anti-Fingerprint Functions, Ensuring That You Won't Worry About Being Damaged By sharp Objects During Use. It Is Washable And Can Achieve A Brand-New Appearance After Being Washed.
Rank #4
- 【PRIVACY FILTER DIMENSIONS】- Width: 20 15/16" (532 mm), Height: 11 13/16" (299 mm), Diagonal: 24" (609.6 mm) - Peslv Dark 24 inch Privacy Screen Filter is engineered to be compatible with 24in Dell, HP, Samsung, Lenovo, LG, Acer, ASUS, Toshiba, ViewSonic, Aoc, Sceptre, PHILIPS, ViewSonic and other brands monitors with 16:9 aspect ratio. Please verify your computer screen's width and height measurements before ordering. It is not recommended to select a size based solely on the diagonal.
- 【HIGH-CLASS PRIVACY ABLE】Peslv collected suggestions from more than 2000 computer users and performed 22188 anti-peep angle corrections on the micro-blind optical technology to ensure that any line of sight beyond +-30° facing the screen will be shielded. With a Peslv computer privacy screen 24 inch, Protect the privacy of your computer monitor screen and no longer leak any confidential data.
- 【2 MOUNTING OPTIONS FOR EASY INSTALLATION】The Peslv 24 inch privacy screen for monitor supply 2 installation options, Various installation options, are Compatible with both 24" computer monitors with raised bezels and full-screen 24" computer monitors without raised bezels, and convenient installation allows you to complete the installation in 9 seconds. NOTE: Monitors without raised bezels are only available with mounting option 2.
- 【EXCLUSIVE DOUBLE-SIDED TECHNOLOGY】24-inch monitor privacy filter has a double-sided surface technology developed by Peslv. Matte or Glossy. With the matte surface facing outward, you can experience the advanced AG anti-glare technology from Germany while maintaining a 30-degree privacy angle, softening the strong light outdoors, and making the screen content clearly visible. With the glossy side facing outward, you can get a super anti-peeping effect with a privacy angle of 26 degrees.
- 【PROTECT SCREEN ALSO EYES】Filtering optical materials imported from Japan can reduce 92% of blue light and 98% of UV light, and filter all harmful light emitted from the screen to protect your eyes. The high-transparent and reinforced built-in protective layer not only presents high-definition picture quality but also protects your screen from scratches. Hurry up and place an order, own a privacy screen for a computer monitor 24 inch, and protect your monitor screen and your eyes.
Rank #3
- 【Privacy Filter Dimensions】- Width: 20 15/16" (532 mm), Height: 11 13/16" (299 mm), Diagonal: 24" (609.6 mm) - SightPro Blackout Privacy Screen Filter is engineered to be compatible with HP, Dell, Samsung, Lenovo, LG, Acer, ASUS, ViewSonic, and other monitor brands. Please verify your computer screen's width and height measurements before ordering. It's not recommended to make your selection based solely on your computer screen's diagonal size.
- 【Two Attachment Options】- Installs in minutes. Option 1 uses clear adhesive strips that securely attach to any computer screen. Option 2 (for computer screens with a raised bezel only) uses slide mount tabs that easily stick to the display frame, allowing you to slide the privacy screen filter on and off as needed.
- 【Superior Privacy and Anti Glare】- Our advanced multi-layered film filter blacks out your computer screen when viewing from the side, while maintaining a crystal clear screen straight-on. It also protects your eyes from harmful glare, UV, and blue light. [Note: It does not block visibility directly behind you, regardless of the distance.]
- 【Perfect for Travel and Open Workspaces】- Our computer screen privacy filter is the ideal solution for healthcare providers, mobile workers, commuters, students, and business travelers. Now you can stay compliant and safeguard sensitive corporate information while working in airplanes, subways, airports and public areas.
- 【Package Contents】- Each package includes one privacy screen shield filter, two sets of clear adhesive strips, two sets of slide mount tabs, and a microfiber cleaning cloth. Buy with confidence – located in the US, Sight Pro specializes in providing best-in-class privacy solutions to individuals, small businesses, corporations, government, and educational institutions. Our privacy screens are Section 889 and TAA compliant.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
