Tune up Utility's Any good ones, or no?

mudstuck

I am always trying to learn, about safe dependable ways to make my machine run as good as possible. While looking around on New Egg I ran across some soft ware that helps clean up old files, fix and find broken things, and generally optimize computer performance, this one had a free trial, however, Im wondering about a true freeware, that will truely help optimize my machines O.S. and give me maybe some cool themes, and neat gadgets.

I have been told in the past that some registry cleaners, etc, are really, adaware, in disguise, and actually, hurt more than they help.

You thoughts and experiences on these question, advice on things I have not considered, and help is greatly appreciated.

Grunty

CCleaner a registry, browser 'cleaner' and file deleter (not needed) does most of what is says it will do and it's free.  Auslogics' Disk Defrag is a good replacement for Window's drive defragger. It is free too. Secunia PSI helps you track and keep most of the software you have up-to-date. It's free version will tell you what needs to be updated and nag you to buy the pay version. If you have more money than time it's paid version will get the updates for you.

No need to buy this type of software. Always check all software you install for browser add-ons and other such helper/mal-ware you don't want. The reputable one's will have an option to not install them that you have to opt out of during the install.

Forumfall

I find CrapCleaner quite good to clean up old files and clean the registry. I have also tried other reg cleaners that often caused problems. I use that and spybot S&D (antispyware etc.) evry now and then.

You might also want to defrag your HDD evry couple of months or so with the windows defrag program (Start>run type defrag and hit enter).

Varny

I've used Tuneup Utilities since 2006 and bought it every year and loved it, Just has a great UI to access everything by and love Registry defrag.

mudstuck

Originally posted by Forumfall


I find CrapCleaner quite good to clean up old files and clean the registry. I have also tried other reg cleaners that often caused problems. I use that and spybot S&D (antispyware etc.) evry now and then.
You might also want to defrag your HDD evry couple of months or so with the windows defrag program (Start>run type defrag and hit enter).

 

Yes Spybot is a must for me, Ive had zero problems, that I can tell, since useing it, like I use to have. Dont know if it is due to S&D,or my browsing habits. Keeping my cookies cleaned out, and defragging are also regular activities.

I us to use O&O defrag, but that machine eventually developed problems. I changed everything after that, and use the XP default defrag now.

What caused those problems, I do not know, the gentleman I gave that machine to, got it running well, without any hardware changes(A neighbor of his, who moved away, fixed it). Not sure what the problem was, but as money is tight, I am asking here for all input from you people, as you all, seem to give good clear, advice/opinions when asked. Thank you all, and I am continuing to read, and appreciate all the incoming info.

Gaming is my focus, machine is old. Running as clean as possible, is what I'm going for, without sacrificing reliability.

TheHatter

Eusing Free Registry Cleaner

Windows Defrag

Lavasoft Adaware

AVG

 

I just saved you however much that program costs.

 

Fibsdk

I use Game Booster and quite happy with it.

Rayx0r

I'll vouche for CCleaner.  I actually use this at work on our workstations.