What can I get rid of?

I have been trying to free up space on my C drive. I have uninstalled a lot of programs already but I want to clean out all the junk. What does all this stuff do and what do you all think is worth getting rid of?

When I 1st got my laptop I use a data transfer cable to move all my files over. I didn't really know what I was doing back then (as well as I do now) and a lot of junk was transferred. Therefore here I am years later cleaning this all out...

1. 2. 3. 4.

(The blank spots are programs I know I need/use...iTunes, antivirus,C++, etc...)

 

You don't need a lot of the HP bloatware - but I feel like the best approach is not removal after the matter, but rather to do a fresh install and install only what you need. Then you don't have the leftover data that often is fragmented after multiple uninstalls.

 

A friend of mine says the only way to go is to reformat the drive/partition. That gets rid of all the junk. The problem that I think I would have is that I have my computer set up exactly how I like it, won't I lose all of my settings and such too? He says it's an easy 3 hour job...but he's a whiz with computers (he wrote a program for the Marine's that should save them loads of cash). Maybe he could help me with the process...

 

You can back up your data, but you can't save all of your settings and programs without doing a factory image. And a factory image/cloning would leave right back at square one, just on a different disk drive.

If you want to remove your bloatware at least, you can get rid of it using Revo Uninstaller, and be sure to use the Advanced removal method when uninstalling your programs. That should pick up all - or at least most - of the leftover directories, files, and unnecessary registry entries (though leftover/fragmented registry is debatable as to whether it causes systems to slow down). Just be sure to backup your data and registry before doing all this (I think Revo creates a restore point with each uninstall you perform, anyway).

Once you've gotten rid of the unwarranted bloatware, it's advised you defrag the hard drive. Auslogics does a good thorough job of this.

But your friend is right - a fresh install is definitely more practical (depending on how you look at it).

 

I use Revo, and that's definitely the best way to clear up your hard drive of any unneeded programs, short of doing a complete Windows reinstall. Not only will it take care of the programs themselves, but the registry (as mentioned) and any other files/folders created by the program.

Yeah, Revo does create a restore point when it can; I have my Windows system restore disabled on my laptop, but if it was on then Revo would do that before doing anything else.

 

I always use 'moderate mode' without issue. Do you/ have you use the 'advanced mode' and ever had an issue?

 

I usually use Moderate settings, though with the few times I've used Advanced, I never had an issue with it. Just that it didn't create a system restore point (though that's due to me, not Revo).

 

Wouldn't CCleaner do the same to remove all the extra leftover junk? I have uninstalled a lot of programs already. If I do still have leftover files/folders, will Revo or another program clear it all out, after the main part has been uninstalled?

 

CCleaner is more for deleting browser cookies, temp files, and the like, whereas Revo is aimed at removing all trace of a program that was once installed on your computer. CCleaner won't get rid of your HP software, for example.

 

Will Revo work after a program has already been uninstalled?

 

Ccleaner does have an Uninstall feature - but it's not as thorough as Revo. It just launches the software's built in uninstaller (as does Revo, but doesn't scan for leftover data after).

Only if the program still shows up in Revo's list of programs available to uninstall. Otherwise, no. You may still have leftover data - which you can remove yourself, but you need to know exactly what it left behind. That's what makes using Revo so convenient.

 

Which of the HP programs can I get rid of? I know one of the MediaSmart ones controls the volume controls.

 

Pretty much: all of it. Basically, anything that is not driver software for any hardware or peripherals you have installed. Even removing those won't damage your system, but if you remove a driver or it's respective software utility/interface, you'll have reduced functionality until you put it back on.

 

The best way is to go with an HP "clean install" it should be on your restore discs or partition. It will basically reformat your whole computer so backup anything you have, but it will install only bare minimum drivers and apps required. And HP requires some programs to run to properly use all the features. I recommend going that route.

 

I plan on putting a SSD on my laptop after taxes come back. Should I do a reinstall/reformat before or after i get the SSD? It would make sense to do it before the SSD so that all the junk doesn't get transferred as well, right?

 

In my opinion, do a clean install on the SSD once you get it instead of cloning the existing drive.

In the meantime, you can play with adding/removing software/applications from the current HDD so you know exactly what you need on your fresh new install once the SSD arrives.

 

Makes sense

 

I'm having problems with itunes....where on the forum should i post for help about it?

(I moved my music to an external drive years ago....but some of my music is still on the C drive....I don't know exactly how to put everything where I want it so iTunes can find it...and there's a lot to move...)

 

You can make a new thread in Windows OS and Software, or continue it here, I suppose. Although, all you really need to do is navigate through your Music folder -> iTunes -> iTunes Media/Music, or something to that effect (I forget the exact directory name for where iTunes libraries import media). Or you can always click on Import from within the player and go to where your media files are, and select the folder for iTunes to scan.

 

I fixed the problem. It wasn't as bad as I thought it was. Took some time though. There was some music on the C and on the L (external). I wanted it all on the L, but I must have downloaded music from itunes a few times without the L connected. I manually moved the music folders over to the L and it was found by itunes no problem. I now have about 80GB filled on my C drive. About 200GB free. I'm still debating what size SSD to get. I was thinking 160 or 180 would be enough, but I might as well get a 256 just in case.

 

Glad you found your fix! :thumbsup:

My recommendation is to go with a bigger drive if it fits your budget, due to partitioning recommendations and methods on maximizing lifespan.

 

I just saw on Revo's website that the Revo Uninstaller Pro will clean up programs after they've already been installed. So you could give the free trial a go or purchase the program. The free Revo won't do it.