Programs for cleaning computer ?

Hey guys, I'm in the process of cleaning the comp cuz I can feel it's starting to run a little slugish. I don't really wanna do a clean instal of OS yet, so I need some input on what programs should I look at to clean/check/decrapify. There's always some spyware a hidden virus or just something out of place. Can u suggest what programs should b good to get so I can clean the comp really good ?

 

I use CCleaner for cleaning mostly since you can manage pretty much everything [registry, temp files, crap, free space, whatever really] and set for secure file deletion. Than I just finish off with a standard Windows defrag.

 

what about spyware/virus and such ?

 

Usually what I do...
1. CCleaner. Cleans some crap off your computer.
2. MyDefrag. Doing some defragmentation might help speed up your computer.
3. Avira AntiVir/ MBAM / SAS. Check for viruses.
4. If it still feels sluggish after all that, I usually check my hard drive's free space. If it is too full, I'll remove some unused files or programs.
5. If (4) doesn't work, I'll look for a time to just do a clean install/reformat.

 

Yep, I make these 2 steps a routine as part of comps usage.

cheers ...

 

I usually use Nod32 and Spybot.
Though I'm thinking on switching to something else that is supposedly more efficient.
We'll see.
Right now though, I have no need to make the switch

 

More efficient in what respect? I ask because I use the same combo, but would be willing to switch over to something else if it offers better protection.

Thanks.

 

Diskeeper + TuneUp Utilities 2009 + Spybot = FTW

did I just type ftw?...

 

Malwarebytes and superantispyware

 

Firstly, defrag your hard drive using a program like MyDefrag or Defraggler.
This can often boost performance slot more than you may think

You should already have an AV program installed, make sure it is up to date
If you don't, there are many free programs availible that can do the job.
Along with this I install MalwareBytes Anti-Malware to get rid of the all the other nasties
Run full system scan with each, at least every month

Also, as mentioned above CCleaner is a great program to clean up your registry, and your system of unneeded files.

Finally, if you are on Vista press start, type run, and in the box type msconfig.
Navigate to the Startup tab, and disable any programs you don't need as soon as you start up, eg IM programs or media related programs that can be launched later when you need them, this can help increase your boot time.

Hope this helps
Ask if you have any further questions

 

Why use an external defrag tool when windows has one ?

does it make a difference I have a SSD ?

 

Good question, you don't have to.

As far as defrag? no.

cheers ...

 

You don't have to as said above by qhn, but I like defraggler because of the more in depth information provided (total fragmented files size, number of fragmented files and so on) as well as the visual display which is nicer than that of the built in tool

 

I use:
Antivir, Malwarebytes AM and Super anti-spyware for virus/malware scanning. Previously I used to use Avast, and that was okay too, but I find Antivir to be easier to use and (supposedly) it has a better detection rate.

In-built disk cleanup utility. Works good enough for me.

Diskeeper 2009 Pro for defrag. It's on automatic defrag mode, so I never actually bother with defrags; Diskeeper does everything nicely on it's own when required.

May have been mentioned before, but just to reiterate: using registry cleaners and 'optimizers' is not a good idea. They can cause problems, and there is no real benefit from the operation.

 

if you have an ssd, don't defrag. it'll mess it up. there's no need for a 3rd party defrag app. just use vista's defrag. its just as good. also you shouldn't mess with msconfig a lot. only disable things that apps you installed and you don't want it to start a service, i.e. nero's back up. but for the most part, it'll make it worse.

 

The two software's I use to keep my machine in perfect condition are:
1: CCleaner
2: Registry Booster

When I first used CCleaner I got rid of 2 GB crap and it solved at least 100 problems. The second software I use is Registry Booster. You need to purchase the program in order to use it, but it's worth it. It solves some errors and problems on your computer. When I used for the first time I felt my computer running a little smoother after I used this program.

I can really recommend these programs.

 

Why should an SSD not be defragd ?