How Do I Avoid Google Ads?

Function

The purpose of Google ads is not to annoy web users, but rather to help all kinds of websites get their names out there by allowing them to advertise through Google's AdWords service. Companies and websites pay Google for ads that are then placed on search engine results---known as 'Sponsored Links'---and on other people's websites and blogs in the form of AdSense blocks, images or videos. The ads not only help the companies who pay for them through AdWords, they also give website owners and bloggers a way to earn money for their efforts through AdSense.

Identification

Google ads are just one of several other online advertising networks floating around. Some of its competitors like Chitika, Black Label Ads and AdBrite look a lot like Google ads and have the same purpose. To identify a Google advertisement, look for a tag line that reads 'Ads by Google' or an icon that looks like the lowercase letter 'i' surrounded by a circle.

Types

There are a few types of Google ads; however, they will all be blocked under a single command. Some of the more common types of Google ads include text blocks, single-word lists, pictures and short videos.

Solution

Both of the two most popular web browsers, Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer, have add-ons that can be downloaded or instantly activated to avoid Google ads. Firefox users can download one of two free add-ons known as AdBlock and CustomizeGoogle, while Internet Explorer users can simply activate ad-blockers that come with the browser like AddSubtract or WebWasher.