What type of software is primarily designed to deliver advertisements without the user's consent?

Adware is a type of software specifically created to deliver advertisements, typically in a way that isn't explicitly approved by the user. Unlike some other software types, adware often tracks user behavior to better tailor advertisements, which can lead to a more intrusive experience. Users may find their systems displaying unwanted ads in various forms, such as pop-ups or banner ads, and this can detract from their user experience.

Recognizing adware is essential as it often gets bundled with free software, leading many users to unknowingly install it. While adware itself can be relatively harmless, it can pave the way for more serious issues and often accompanies other forms of unwanted software. This makes it crucial for users to be aware of the ways adware can infiltrate their systems and how to manage it effectively.

In contrast, spyware refers more specifically to software designed to gather information about a user without their knowledge, while malware is a broad category that includes any kind of malicious software, including viruses and worms. Ransomware specifically encrypts a user's data and demands payment for its restoration, making it a distinct threat. Thus, adware stands out as the primary software designed to deliver advertisements without user consent.