A browser helper object, or BHO, is a plug-in for the Microsoft Internet Explorer web browser. The BHO application programming interface exposes hooks that allow the BHO to access the document object model of the current page and to control navigation. Some exploits of this technology search all pages you view in IE and replace banner advertisements with other ads. Some monitor and report on your actions or change your home page.
Adware is a software application, which displays advertisements on your computer. Advertisements can be displayed through pop-up/pop-under windows, additional bars or toolbars, underlined links or buttons that appear on a computer screen. Adware applications include additional code that delivers the ads. Usually, author of adware earns some money when users click on those ads. Occasionally, adware includes code that tracks user’s personal information or passes it to third parties, without the user’s permission or knowledge. Not all adware applications are bad and need to be removed immediately (even if they track some personal information).
