恶意软件：
恶意软件是一种可执行的二进制文件，本质上是恶意的。攻击者可以使用恶意软件来执行各种恶意操作，例如使用键盘记录器或 RAT 对目标进行间谍活动，他们还可以删除您的数据或加密您的数据以获取“赎金”。恶意软件包括计算机病毒、蠕虫、特洛伊木马、勒索软件、间谍软件和其他恶意程序。
恶意软件类型：
1. Viruses
2. Worms
3. Spyware
4. Trojan Horse
5. Logic Bombs 广告软件：
广告软件并不完全是恶意的，但它们确实侵犯了用户的隐私。它们在计算机桌面或单个程序内显示广告。它们附带免费使用的软件，因此是此类开发人员的主要收入来源。他们会监控您的兴趣并显示相关广告。攻击者可以在软件中嵌入恶意代码，广告软件可以监控您的系统活动，甚至可以危害您的机器。
广告支持的软件：
1. Application software
2. Software as a service 让我们看看恶意软件和广告软件之间的区别：
| S.NO. | MALWARE | ADWARE |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Malware is made up of two words malicious and software and it cause extensive damage to data and systems. | Adware is quite similar to a spyware and it can be both intrusive and difficult to eradicate. |
| 2 | Malware is a file or a code, designed to infiltrate a user’s personal computer and network. | While, it is a form of malware served as advertisements to collect your personal information. |
| 3 | Malware is more harmful. | Adware is less harmful than Malware |
| 4 | Malware is distributed via emails or software installations | Whereas, adware is distributed through pop-up windows. |
| 5 | They can replicate itself. | While, adware can not self-replicate |
| 6 | They covers a range of malicious software. | Adware is a type of malware. |
| 7 | It can destroy data and resources, cause and configuration and network issues and many time. | Adware provides profit to the developer by generating online advertisement. |