If you are using Mozilla Firefox, there is a very easy way you can configure your web browsers to block all advertisements from your web pages.

Mozilla Firefox allows you to install extensions, which are small programs that enahnce Firefox's functionality. There are dozens of free extensions you can download from Mozilla Update.

Two of my favorites allow you to effectively block advertisements from showing up as you browse the web.

The first, AdBlock, will allow you to selectively hide normal banner advertisements. You can install the Adblock entesion from Mozilla Update. Follow the instructions on their web site to learn how to use it.

The second, Flashblock, is even more useful in my opinion. The web is being overrun by Flash advertisements. These little movies load automatically, without notification, and can really slow down the web experience.

Flashblock allows YOU to choose when to view a Flash animation. Instead of automatically loading the Flash movie, it shows a play icon instead. If you click on the play icon, then the browser will download and play the Flash movie.

If you've ever been at work, and you've unwittingly loaded a web page with a very loud Flash advertisement, you know why this can be helpful. Flashblock can be downloaded here: Flashblock extension for Firefox

You can uninstall or manage these extensions at any time by clicking on the Tools menu in Firefox and choosing Extensions.