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Impact of Ad Blockers on Computer Power Consumption while Web Browsing: A Comparative Analysis

Author

Listed:
  • Khan Awais Khan
  • Mohammad Tariq Iqbal
  • Mohsin Jamil

Abstract

This study explores the impact of various ad blockers on power consumption during web browsing, focusing on different types of online content. By analyzing power use across ten popular websites, the study assesses the performance of five widely utilized ad blockers: AdBlock, AdBlock Plus, uBlock, uBlock Origin, and uBlock Origin Lite. Power consumption was measured under controlled conditions, comparing scenarios with and without ad blockers to gain insight into their efficiency. The findings indicate substantial differences in power savings, with some ad blockers significantly reducing power usage, particularly on media-heavy sites, while others unexpectedly increased consumption under certain conditions. The study underscores the potential of ad blockers to enhance power efficiency in digital environments, highlighting the importance of optimizing ad-blocking techniques to reduce the environmental impact of online activities. Through comprehensive analysis and comparison, this research offers insights into selecting effective ad blockers to minimize power consumption, promoting more sustainable web browsing practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Khan Awais Khan & Mohammad Tariq Iqbal & Mohsin Jamil, 2024. "Impact of Ad Blockers on Computer Power Consumption while Web Browsing: A Comparative Analysis," European Journal of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, European Open Science, vol. 8(5), pages 18-24, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:epw:ejece0:v:8:y:2024:i:5:id:19650
    DOI: 10.24018/ejece.2024.8.5.650
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Vilma Todri, 2022. "Frontiers: The Impact of Ad-Blockers on Online Consumer Behavior," Marketing Science, INFORMS, vol. 41(1), pages 7-18, January.
    2. Kim, Jooyoung & Lee, Kyu Hyung & Kim, Jaemin, 2023. "Linking blockchain technology and digital advertising: How blockchain technology can enhance digital advertising to be more effective, efficient, and trustworthy," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 160(C).
    3. Ren, Siyu & Hao, Yu & Xu, Lu & Wu, Haitao & Ba, Ning, 2021. "Digitalization and energy: How does internet development affect China's energy consumption?," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 98(C).
    4. Yonghua Ji & Ruibing Wang & Qinglong Gou, 2019. "Monetization on Mobile Platforms: Balancing in‐App Advertising and User Base Growth," Production and Operations Management, Production and Operations Management Society, vol. 28(9), pages 2202-2220, September.
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