It is no secret that many of us do not read through all the prompts when

installing programs. It is wise to pay a little more attention, however,

especially when programs prompt you to install additional unwanted

software. It may seem trivial at the time but eventually when your 
computer starts slowing down and acting erratically you may wish you 

had spent the extra couple of seconds during installation.

Many “free” programs come bundled with optional browser toolbars and other

programs that promise to make your digital life easier. These bundled programs 
are often selected for installation by default so you have to opt out of installing
them. If you are unsure about such programs it is best to err on the side of caution
and ensure that you have deselected the option to install the bundled program. 
The program you are installing, the one you actually want, will most likely work
just as well without the bundled software. Adding various unnecessary programs 
to your system inevitably slows it down as well as occupying valuable hard drive 
space and sometimes screen real estate. I have seen browsers so littered with 

toolbars and add-ons that there is hardly enough space to view webpages.

Be careful when installing programs on your computer and pay attention to what

is being installed. While legitimate companies bundle their software, spyware and

virus makers also use this technique to get you to unwittingly install their malicious

programs. Next time you see a check box while installing a program have a look to

see what you are installing before continuing.