What is the primary function of adware?

The primary function of adware is to present advertisements based on browsing behavior. This type of software is designed to generate revenue for its creator by displaying ads to users, which may often be tailored according to the user's interests and online activities. Adware typically collects data about users' browsing habits and preferences, which it then uses to deliver targeted advertising.

As a consequence, while it may generate income, adware can also be intrusive, degrade user experience, and sometimes bundle with other unwanted software or malicious components. Understanding adware’s purpose is important for recognizing its potential impact on users’ privacy and system performance, as well as staying vigilant against such applications that might unintentionally undermine security.

Other options like optimizing system performance, protecting against malware, or securely managing passwords do not align with the fundamental purpose of adware, which is strictly focused on advertising rather than enhancing security or performance.