One of the more annoying aspects of the internet is the abundance of popups that appear on the screen at any given moment. A popup, while not quite considered a virus, is still a major irritant, as well as a sign that your computer may be wide open to a virus attack.

In most cases, a popup problem can be solved by installing a pop up blocker, many versions of which are available in software programs and browser toolbars. A pop up blocker will literally block a popup, preventing a popup from appearing on the screen and disrupting your browsing. Another way to put an end to your popup problem is by installing and running a firewall. Firewalls are designed to filter information from the Internet and block damaging files from accessing your computer. A firewall is an essential tool, and not only for blocking a popup. Firewalls prevent hacker attacks, viruses and spyware, spam, and hijacking, among other things.

A popup can appear in many forms. Though there are many types of popups, the most common popup is controlled by Javascript code. A popup of this sort can be prevented in many ways:

1. Turn off Javascript execution.
2. Use a software program that will identify incoming Javascript designed to produce popups, and disable that code.
3. Install and use a browser bar that includes a pop up blocker.
4. Use a browser that has a pop up blocker built into the browser code.
5. Disable Windows Messenger Service, which is designed to communicate with users by sending a popup.

Popup spam can be a signal that your computer security is compromised. The advantage of a firewall is that it prevents popup spam as well as other access to your computer, beyond pop up spam. Firewalls work by making you invisible online by blocking all communications from unauthorized sources. Some operating system software comes with a built-in firewall, and you can also install separate firewall software, download a free firewall program, or buy a hardware firewall. To ensure your firewall continues to act as a pop up blocker and provide other security protection, the firewall must be running all its latest updates.

By using a pop up blocker and an updated, functional firewall, computer users can eliminate the irritation factor of web surfing that is the popup.