Do you find similarity between the speeds of your computer processors to that of talking to your grandma on a lazy Sunday afternoon? Or have you been complaining that your PC has changed just as your husband/wife has after marriage and is just not the same when you bought it?
Don’t worry; we have a solution to your problems! Just follow these five simple steps and you can ensure that your PC is in good health and is running smoothly.
1. Defragment your disk: It becomes time-consuming for the PC to open and recollect data from different sources bit by bit when the files are fragmented. This reduces the overall speed of your PC. Unfortunately, this is unavoidable in Windows configuration. So, you will have to manually defragment your hard disk at least twice a month.
Instead of using the sluggish built-in Defragmenter by Windows, we recommend the Auslogics Disk Defrag software which is easily available on the Internet and what’s more, it’s free too.
2. A Registry Cleaner is a must: The Registry Cleaner is a widely used tool to boost up the performance of a PC. A Registry Cleaner is an easy pointers based and click-me programmes that automatically detects the slowness of a PC and fixes it as you click. Using this programme even once a week would ensure that your PC runs at its original specifications.
There is a lot of Registry Cleaner software available in the market but rather than going for an ordinary one, we would recommend you, Regsweep software which is the best and user-friendly too.
3. Get rid of Spywares: Spywares are nasty worms that can make your PC’s speed look horribly slow. They could also copy your private information with you being unaware about it. So detecting and deleting them from time to time not only boosts the speed of the PC but also keeps you secured. A registry cleaner also helps for the same but only to an extent.
4. Vacate disk space and repair disk errors: The build-in Disk Cleanup tool of Windows is an easy to use and excellent tool to free up your disk space. By safely identifying the deletable files, it enhances PC’s performance as well.
One of the most neglected ways of improving PC performance is to detect disk errors and repair it. To fix this, go to, My Computer and then right click to – Your Hard Disk – Properties – Check Disk – Fix your file system error automatically. This will remove the internal and integrity errors which makes your system slow.
5. Windows Vista special: Relatively unknown, every version of Windows Vista has a function known as ReadyBoost that lets you make use of a flash memory similar to a USB flash drive without having to add more RAM. When you plug-in your USB drive, the system automatically asks if you want to boost system performance. Just click yes and Vista will do the rest of the job for you.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Thursday, October 16, 2008
What Is Registry Repair Software, And Why Do I Need It?
If you run your pc on Windows OS, then you have a Windows registry. The registry is in essence a cache of all of the important bits of data from your control panel. Every piece of hardware, every software application on your computer, has data stored on the Windows registry. If your computer is running slowly to perform daily tasks, there is one axiom to keep in mind: A clean registry makes for a fast operating speed. You can easily clean your registry by using registry repair software.
Is My Registry Dirty?
If you use your computer a lot, it very well might be, especially if you uninstall software applications frequently. Any small pieces of information from the software that are left on the computer can clog up the computer and cause it to slow down. Multiply that by the number of times you uninstall software, and you can see how it adds up to a slow computer.
A clean registry utility tool can be the answer you need to improve pc performance. This is an easy pc fix that is available online for download.
It is easy to clean your registry. Simply start up the clean registry tool, and let it begin its work. It will start by performing an analysis of the information on your Windows registry, and then will make recommendations as to what needs to be removed. You will want to take a careful look at the analysis, and make sure that the clean registry tool does not inadvertently remove any important data from your Windows registry that your computer needs in order to function properly.
Once you decide what data can stay and what can go, your registry repair software will do the cleaning work for you. You will want to compare clean registry tool software to see how long this process will take. Some cleanup registry software is quicker than others. It does, however, usually take longer to clean the registry if you have let it go for a long time, so bear that in mind. However, when the registry is cleaned on a regular basis, the task is performed quickly.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to use the registry repair software of your choosing. Just like any software, some are more user friendly than others, and since it is an application that your will be using frequently, you will want to check this out.
You can find tips on selecting and using registry repair software on a good registry cleaner review. These will help you discover which Windows registry cleaner will work best for you and your computer.
Is My Registry Dirty?
If you use your computer a lot, it very well might be, especially if you uninstall software applications frequently. Any small pieces of information from the software that are left on the computer can clog up the computer and cause it to slow down. Multiply that by the number of times you uninstall software, and you can see how it adds up to a slow computer.
A clean registry utility tool can be the answer you need to improve pc performance. This is an easy pc fix that is available online for download.
It is easy to clean your registry. Simply start up the clean registry tool, and let it begin its work. It will start by performing an analysis of the information on your Windows registry, and then will make recommendations as to what needs to be removed. You will want to take a careful look at the analysis, and make sure that the clean registry tool does not inadvertently remove any important data from your Windows registry that your computer needs in order to function properly.
Once you decide what data can stay and what can go, your registry repair software will do the cleaning work for you. You will want to compare clean registry tool software to see how long this process will take. Some cleanup registry software is quicker than others. It does, however, usually take longer to clean the registry if you have let it go for a long time, so bear that in mind. However, when the registry is cleaned on a regular basis, the task is performed quickly.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to use the registry repair software of your choosing. Just like any software, some are more user friendly than others, and since it is an application that your will be using frequently, you will want to check this out.
You can find tips on selecting and using registry repair software on a good registry cleaner review. These will help you discover which Windows registry cleaner will work best for you and your computer.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Slow Computer? The Best PC Registry Cleaners Of 2008
How many times has yours or someone you know computer become slow? Its a regular occurrence and whilst the internet has become faster, more sophisticated and accessed more. So has damaging files, junk and viruses which are transmitted across the web resulting in home PC's becoming cluttered with useless files. In some cases this can cause serious damage. This is when you need to consider registry cleaner.
The growth of social networks such as Myspace and Facebook have brought a whole new audience to the internet, these sites have taken the internet by storm, many people are browsing for hours and in many cases not knowing they are filling their machines full of unwanted files, which more than often results in slow, ill performing computers which are plagued with error messages which crash and are a nightmare to use.
The answer to this problem is a piece of software called a registry cleaner. Registry cleaners are designed to scan your computer and to find all the useless files that are causing your computer to become slow. The software then either deletes or move the files to a more appropriate place. This frees up extra space allowing your computer to improve its speed.
Finding the best registry cleaners can be somewhat of a task itself, as not all software of this kind is effective. Luckily there is a site which explains in detail the top performing registry cleaning software to buy today.
ThreeReviews.com brings you PC Registry Cleaners 2008 Top 3 Programs. They have filtered out 3 of 17 registry products and reviewed each to find the best. They review each on 3 features: Ease to use, how they work, value for money. This website wanted to find the top 3 registry cleaners of 2008. After extensive testing they gave their decision on their website alongside a five star system and a ranking out of ten.
More in depth detail regarding the registry cleaners can be found on the website. It is always worth consulting a website of this nature as there is a lot of less than effective software around.
If your computer has become slow and you want to revamp your system and make it perform like new again, visit PC Registry Cleaners 2008 Top 3 Programs
The growth of social networks such as Myspace and Facebook have brought a whole new audience to the internet, these sites have taken the internet by storm, many people are browsing for hours and in many cases not knowing they are filling their machines full of unwanted files, which more than often results in slow, ill performing computers which are plagued with error messages which crash and are a nightmare to use.
The answer to this problem is a piece of software called a registry cleaner. Registry cleaners are designed to scan your computer and to find all the useless files that are causing your computer to become slow. The software then either deletes or move the files to a more appropriate place. This frees up extra space allowing your computer to improve its speed.
Finding the best registry cleaners can be somewhat of a task itself, as not all software of this kind is effective. Luckily there is a site which explains in detail the top performing registry cleaning software to buy today.
ThreeReviews.com brings you PC Registry Cleaners 2008 Top 3 Programs. They have filtered out 3 of 17 registry products and reviewed each to find the best. They review each on 3 features: Ease to use, how they work, value for money. This website wanted to find the top 3 registry cleaners of 2008. After extensive testing they gave their decision on their website alongside a five star system and a ranking out of ten.
More in depth detail regarding the registry cleaners can be found on the website. It is always worth consulting a website of this nature as there is a lot of less than effective software around.
If your computer has become slow and you want to revamp your system and make it perform like new again, visit PC Registry Cleaners 2008 Top 3 Programs
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Windows Live OneCare
Get green. Stay green.
With all-in-one PC protection.
Windows Live OneCare is always on and always communicating the status of your PC’s health.
With all-in-one PC protection.
Windows Live OneCare is always on and always communicating the status of your PC’s health.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Why Do You Need A Window Cleaner
Window cleaner has become an absolute necessity these days because every time you use your computer, every webpage you visit, every image and file - whether multimedia or a movie file - you see, are stored in it. This takes up a lot of disk space, which is quite valuable in terms of storage space. You probably use a number of software, as most do, and every software saves some information or the other. Through this information, all your activities can be tracked and traced, invading your privacy. Windows cleaner is a tool that helps remove all these traces, and much more to help run your computer better and faster.
What most computer users do not realize is that every single online activity of theirs can be easily tracked. Internet history files, cookies of the sites you visit, and your browser cache is a storehouse of all your online activities. Through these logs, your privacy can be trespassed. These files are not required, and must be deleted after you have finished using your computer. These unwanted files take up precious disk space and slow down your complete system. This is why you need a Window cleaner - to help clean up all these unwanted information.
What Will A Windows Cleaner Do
Window registry cleaner will free your computer of all stored information, which are not required, and which are a danger to your privacy. Different cleaners have different features, depending on what you require. Windows cleaner that merely deletes the files may have a limited benefit, as a variety of data recovery tools available can help recover the data. Certain Window cleaners have a feature that further shreds the deleted files and folders.
Though a Windows cleaner is an all-in-one cleaning tool, it comes with various features. All such cleaners are flexible tools that clean up the history of your activities, both online and offline, and restore hard disk space. Some cleaners come with features, such as secret bookmarks, stealth cleaning, and hide browsers, among many others. Certain other features include optimizers that clean all obsolete files and files that are pure junk. Certain features also find duplicate files and remove them.
A Window cleaner is a powerful tool and is quite reliable for removing all useless files, and de-fragmenting your computer, making it run faster than before, and completely error free. It is a user-friendly application, though some may not be able to restore deleted files. Depending upon the Window registry cleaner you have opted for, you can either clean all the traces of your activities manually, or fix up a regular schedule for cleaning.
Having a Window cleaner is no longer an option, but a must. To select the best cleaner to suit you, all you need is to go online. A plethora of online stores has a variety of cleaners to choose from.
Author is admin and technical expert associated with development of computer security and performance enhancing software like Registry Cleaner, Anti Spyware, Window Cleaner and Anti Spam Filter. Learn how Windows Cleaner helps in improving system performance. Visit our Home Page or Resource Center to read more about products and download free trial of a range of security and performance enhancing software like
Windows Registry Cleaner
Anti Spyware and Anti Adware
Windows and Internet Cleaner
Anti Spam Filter for MS Outlook
Anti Spam Filter for Outlook Express
What most computer users do not realize is that every single online activity of theirs can be easily tracked. Internet history files, cookies of the sites you visit, and your browser cache is a storehouse of all your online activities. Through these logs, your privacy can be trespassed. These files are not required, and must be deleted after you have finished using your computer. These unwanted files take up precious disk space and slow down your complete system. This is why you need a Window cleaner - to help clean up all these unwanted information.
What Will A Windows Cleaner Do
Window registry cleaner will free your computer of all stored information, which are not required, and which are a danger to your privacy. Different cleaners have different features, depending on what you require. Windows cleaner that merely deletes the files may have a limited benefit, as a variety of data recovery tools available can help recover the data. Certain Window cleaners have a feature that further shreds the deleted files and folders.
Though a Windows cleaner is an all-in-one cleaning tool, it comes with various features. All such cleaners are flexible tools that clean up the history of your activities, both online and offline, and restore hard disk space. Some cleaners come with features, such as secret bookmarks, stealth cleaning, and hide browsers, among many others. Certain other features include optimizers that clean all obsolete files and files that are pure junk. Certain features also find duplicate files and remove them.
A Window cleaner is a powerful tool and is quite reliable for removing all useless files, and de-fragmenting your computer, making it run faster than before, and completely error free. It is a user-friendly application, though some may not be able to restore deleted files. Depending upon the Window registry cleaner you have opted for, you can either clean all the traces of your activities manually, or fix up a regular schedule for cleaning.
Having a Window cleaner is no longer an option, but a must. To select the best cleaner to suit you, all you need is to go online. A plethora of online stores has a variety of cleaners to choose from.
Author is admin and technical expert associated with development of computer security and performance enhancing software like Registry Cleaner, Anti Spyware, Window Cleaner and Anti Spam Filter. Learn how Windows Cleaner helps in improving system performance. Visit our Home Page or Resource Center to read more about products and download free trial of a range of security and performance enhancing software like
Windows Registry Cleaner
Anti Spyware and Anti Adware
Windows and Internet Cleaner
Anti Spam Filter for MS Outlook
Anti Spam Filter for Outlook Express
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Do You Really Think You Can Neglect Your Windows Registry?
Windows registry, a database of files stored to decide how the operating system and the other program are going to work. The proper management of registry files gives out optimized performance of programs.
Windows registry is important file system you cannot ignore to let it unmanaged. The poorly performing system, every time it has to go through the start up check option of those files which are never to be used. You need a cleaner registry to stop this nuisance being repeated over and over. So regularly scan the system for registry errors and fix these errors with registry fix program.
Often you uninstall a program and you are some times prompted like "These are certain no longer in use; however some programs may need it. Would you like to delete. If you are not certain leave them." This uninstall creates a broken tree in windows registry path. The system every time goes through this path to a result less event, which consumes the time.
In the windows registry database the embedded null registry keys do pose the very threat being an important source to the exploitation. These, some times referred, as registry errors are the prime target as to generate a permanent residence for viruses and Spyware, a sure add-up to the mal function of the system. More over the interference of the shared resources created at time installation have some times the unexpected event calls. The cleaner registry the more proper the system works.
Windows registry errors also lead to the frequent crash of the programs. You were working on some important document and suddenly you evoke a function call but if it has some related null result key associated you will get some message "The program has experienced an error and will now close." This is the position where all your work done is lost.
To fix these errors in windows registry there are various windows registry cleaner. This software detects, check and generate a log of available fixes to be done. The options are clearly set to let you choose from like editing the particular registry, keeping it or permanently deleting it. The free registry cleaner are to be chosen with care and caution. Some programs do offer the better functioning like deep and bulk scan, but do create a delete of the required registry keys, thus creating more registry errors. Despite of all the setbacks you should not choose to ignore your windows registry matters so easily, as you system suffers and eventually your value too at back end.
Windows registry is important file system you cannot ignore to let it unmanaged. The poorly performing system, every time it has to go through the start up check option of those files which are never to be used. You need a cleaner registry to stop this nuisance being repeated over and over. So regularly scan the system for registry errors and fix these errors with registry fix program.
Often you uninstall a program and you are some times prompted like "These are certain no longer in use; however some programs may need it. Would you like to delete. If you are not certain leave them." This uninstall creates a broken tree in windows registry path. The system every time goes through this path to a result less event, which consumes the time.
In the windows registry database the embedded null registry keys do pose the very threat being an important source to the exploitation. These, some times referred, as registry errors are the prime target as to generate a permanent residence for viruses and Spyware, a sure add-up to the mal function of the system. More over the interference of the shared resources created at time installation have some times the unexpected event calls. The cleaner registry the more proper the system works.
Windows registry errors also lead to the frequent crash of the programs. You were working on some important document and suddenly you evoke a function call but if it has some related null result key associated you will get some message "The program has experienced an error and will now close." This is the position where all your work done is lost.
To fix these errors in windows registry there are various windows registry cleaner. This software detects, check and generate a log of available fixes to be done. The options are clearly set to let you choose from like editing the particular registry, keeping it or permanently deleting it. The free registry cleaner are to be chosen with care and caution. Some programs do offer the better functioning like deep and bulk scan, but do create a delete of the required registry keys, thus creating more registry errors. Despite of all the setbacks you should not choose to ignore your windows registry matters so easily, as you system suffers and eventually your value too at back end.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Things You Should Know Before You Download Free Registry Cleaner
Before you download free registry cleaner, understand what a registry cleaner is, types of registry cleaner and how often to use it.
You would be tempted to see the offers for download free registry cleaner. Attractive it is. However, before you download free registry cleaner, understand what a registry cleaner is and how you should use one.
The registry is the heart of your computer. This is where your system stores all the information about your computer - what your software and hardware settings are, and everything about the system configuration. The Windows uses this information to operate. With time, as and when you install and uninstall new software and other components, the older, unnecessary, and incorrect records keep on accumulating in the registry thereby slowing down the system speed. A Window registry cleaner removes all these extra records, trimming down your registry, and speeding up the complete system.
In addition to old records that are not required, the registry is also a home to a plethora of viruses, Spyware, keyloggers, Trojan, and the like that manipulate the whole system, leading to system errors and much more.
Using a Window Registry Cleaner
The most important and critical element to any operating system from Microsoft is its registry, and you require a certain level of knowledge to use a registry cleaner. This is what you should know:
The frequency with which you should use your registry cleaner depends on the frequency of your changes in the system. You would not face much of a problem with your newly installed computer. If you frequently install and uninstall your software, you need to clean your registry frequently. It depends on how often you install and uninstall photo and graphics software, games, drivers, anti-virus, and anti-spyware software, among other installations.
Do you install components while browsing on the net? Do you often change the system configuration? Do you often change your hardware, printer, your monitor, and the like? Depending on these changes, you need to use your registry cleaner daily, weekly, monthly, or less frequently.
One registry cleaner does not necessarily clean the same way as the next one. A cleaner that finds more problems is not necessarily the better one. Certain cleaners, if they are not sure about the registry record, try to find out if it is important, instead of just deleting it. This results in a better computer performance.
Certain cleaners may search deep and show more problem records. There is every chance that the good records may get thrown out with the bad ones. This is the reason why you need to install a full version of the registry cleaner from a reputed vendor.
A registry cleaner does a great job of removing incorrect and useless data from the registry, and enhances the performance of your computer.
Now that you have all the required information about the role and advantages of Window registry cleaner, you can go ahead and download free registry cleaner for your computer. PC Mantra offers free download of registry cleaner for a trial version and offers a full version with added features and functionality.
You would be tempted to see the offers for download free registry cleaner. Attractive it is. However, before you download free registry cleaner, understand what a registry cleaner is and how you should use one.
The registry is the heart of your computer. This is where your system stores all the information about your computer - what your software and hardware settings are, and everything about the system configuration. The Windows uses this information to operate. With time, as and when you install and uninstall new software and other components, the older, unnecessary, and incorrect records keep on accumulating in the registry thereby slowing down the system speed. A Window registry cleaner removes all these extra records, trimming down your registry, and speeding up the complete system.
In addition to old records that are not required, the registry is also a home to a plethora of viruses, Spyware, keyloggers, Trojan, and the like that manipulate the whole system, leading to system errors and much more.
Using a Window Registry Cleaner
The most important and critical element to any operating system from Microsoft is its registry, and you require a certain level of knowledge to use a registry cleaner. This is what you should know:
The frequency with which you should use your registry cleaner depends on the frequency of your changes in the system. You would not face much of a problem with your newly installed computer. If you frequently install and uninstall your software, you need to clean your registry frequently. It depends on how often you install and uninstall photo and graphics software, games, drivers, anti-virus, and anti-spyware software, among other installations.
Do you install components while browsing on the net? Do you often change the system configuration? Do you often change your hardware, printer, your monitor, and the like? Depending on these changes, you need to use your registry cleaner daily, weekly, monthly, or less frequently.
One registry cleaner does not necessarily clean the same way as the next one. A cleaner that finds more problems is not necessarily the better one. Certain cleaners, if they are not sure about the registry record, try to find out if it is important, instead of just deleting it. This results in a better computer performance.
Certain cleaners may search deep and show more problem records. There is every chance that the good records may get thrown out with the bad ones. This is the reason why you need to install a full version of the registry cleaner from a reputed vendor.
A registry cleaner does a great job of removing incorrect and useless data from the registry, and enhances the performance of your computer.
Now that you have all the required information about the role and advantages of Window registry cleaner, you can go ahead and download free registry cleaner for your computer. PC Mantra offers free download of registry cleaner for a trial version and offers a full version with added features and functionality.
Monday, February 11, 2008
New Registry Repair Site Reviews Best Registry Cleaner Software Titles
A new website that details the best registry cleaner software available to consumers has been released. RegistryRepairSolutions ( www.registryrepairsolutions.com ) is dedicated to providing computer users with reliable reviews based on their independent testing.
Registry cleaner and repair software is a good tool in any Windows PC user’s arsenal of maintenance utilities. Registry repair programs are able to sweep through the Windows registry and identify broken or corrupt registry entries and then remove them. Doing so can have dramatic improvements in PC performance, eliminate errors, and stop crashes and freezes.
The Windows registry is like the central nervous system of a PC. Whenever software or hardware is installed on the computer, entries are made in the registry so that Windows knows how to run the software consistently.
The registry can become cluttered or corrupt by such causes as viruses, spyware, and the incomplete un-installation of software and hardware drivers.
RegCure was the top pick of RegistryRepairSolutions.com. Their review, found at http://www.registryrepairsolutions.com/regcure-review.html is in depth and detailed.
RegCure is an easy-to-use and powerful software program that allows users to easily sweep through their registry and remove invalid entries in a matter of minutes. It also comes supplied with a backup utility and a highly useful Startup Programs manager.
RegistryRepairSolutions.com highly recommends that individuals use only the best quality registry repair software tools because the registry is so vital to the proper performance of their computers.
Registry cleaner and repair software is a good tool in any Windows PC user’s arsenal of maintenance utilities. Registry repair programs are able to sweep through the Windows registry and identify broken or corrupt registry entries and then remove them. Doing so can have dramatic improvements in PC performance, eliminate errors, and stop crashes and freezes.
The Windows registry is like the central nervous system of a PC. Whenever software or hardware is installed on the computer, entries are made in the registry so that Windows knows how to run the software consistently.
The registry can become cluttered or corrupt by such causes as viruses, spyware, and the incomplete un-installation of software and hardware drivers.
RegCure was the top pick of RegistryRepairSolutions.com. Their review, found at http://www.registryrepairsolutions.com/regcure-review.html is in depth and detailed.
RegCure is an easy-to-use and powerful software program that allows users to easily sweep through their registry and remove invalid entries in a matter of minutes. It also comes supplied with a backup utility and a highly useful Startup Programs manager.
RegistryRepairSolutions.com highly recommends that individuals use only the best quality registry repair software tools because the registry is so vital to the proper performance of their computers.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Symantec Releases Norton 360 2.0 to Beta Testing
Version 2.0 of Symantec's Norton 360 security suite is now entering beta testing. This version will gain several security enhancements introduced with Norton Internet Security 2008 such as Norton Identity Safe, Browser Protection (called Browser Defender in NIS 2008), and home network management. Its backup and tuneup features will also be enhanced.
According to Jeff Kyle, group product manager for Norton 360, about a third of Norton 360 users are technically skilled. That's somewhat surprising, since this product is targeted at the less-technical user. The same survey showed that half of all Norton 360 users have a home network and that over a quarter take advantage of the online backup option.
Kyle stated that Norton 360 is not a suite of disparate products but rather a single integrated product that offers a variety of security features. The underlying security technology is the same as that of NIS 2008, but with an emphasis on ease of use. Usability enhancements in version 2.0 includes handy popup menus for common tasks, streamlined access to settings for advanced users, and a direct link to send feedback about the program.
The Smart Background Scheduler now avoids launching tasks when the computer is running on batteries. It kicks in after the computer has been idle for a while and throttles bandwidth as necessary to minimize impact on performance. In addition, the product is more tightly integrated with Windows.
The backup system can store backed-up data on various local and network-based devices as well as in a 2GB online storage area. For an additional $20 per year, users can add an extra 8GB of online backup; this compares favorably with Windows Live OneCare's $50 per year for 10GB of photo-specific online backup. New in version 2, Norton 360 can backup to an iPod or Blu-Ray disc and backup multiple PCs to a single network-based drive. Version 2 also offers better searching for files to be restored along with a preview feature to help identify the desired file. An overlay on file icons quickly shows whether a file is included or excluded from backup, and whether it has changed since the last backup. The user can right-click a file to quickly include or exclude it from backup.
In version 2.0, Norton 360's tuneup feature will include a Registry cleaner and full support for cleaning up unnecessary browser files in Firefox. It can optionally shut down the computer on completion of its cleanup tasks, and will generate a diagnostic report for troubleshooting purposes.
According to Kyle, Symantec is also working on the second-string features found in the Add-On Pack. They'll be looking to improve antispam accuracy and enhance the parental control features. However, these changes won't be included in the beta test. Symantec expects to release the final product in the first quarter of 2008.
According to Jeff Kyle, group product manager for Norton 360, about a third of Norton 360 users are technically skilled. That's somewhat surprising, since this product is targeted at the less-technical user. The same survey showed that half of all Norton 360 users have a home network and that over a quarter take advantage of the online backup option.
Kyle stated that Norton 360 is not a suite of disparate products but rather a single integrated product that offers a variety of security features. The underlying security technology is the same as that of NIS 2008, but with an emphasis on ease of use. Usability enhancements in version 2.0 includes handy popup menus for common tasks, streamlined access to settings for advanced users, and a direct link to send feedback about the program.
The Smart Background Scheduler now avoids launching tasks when the computer is running on batteries. It kicks in after the computer has been idle for a while and throttles bandwidth as necessary to minimize impact on performance. In addition, the product is more tightly integrated with Windows.
The backup system can store backed-up data on various local and network-based devices as well as in a 2GB online storage area. For an additional $20 per year, users can add an extra 8GB of online backup; this compares favorably with Windows Live OneCare's $50 per year for 10GB of photo-specific online backup. New in version 2, Norton 360 can backup to an iPod or Blu-Ray disc and backup multiple PCs to a single network-based drive. Version 2 also offers better searching for files to be restored along with a preview feature to help identify the desired file. An overlay on file icons quickly shows whether a file is included or excluded from backup, and whether it has changed since the last backup. The user can right-click a file to quickly include or exclude it from backup.
In version 2.0, Norton 360's tuneup feature will include a Registry cleaner and full support for cleaning up unnecessary browser files in Firefox. It can optionally shut down the computer on completion of its cleanup tasks, and will generate a diagnostic report for troubleshooting purposes.
According to Kyle, Symantec is also working on the second-string features found in the Add-On Pack. They'll be looking to improve antispam accuracy and enhance the parental control features. However, these changes won't be included in the beta test. Symantec expects to release the final product in the first quarter of 2008.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Can you defrag your registry?
Auslogics, publisher of the popular Auslogics Disk Defrag, also makes another defragger: Registry Defrag. Does it actually work? Is it all smoke and mirrors, or does using this free program result in faster clock times?
The empirical, Friday afternoon answer is: it's hard to tell. If that sounds familiar to those of you who've used other registry cleaners and their siblings, it should. It's hard to gauge if these programs are effective because once you're done using it, you'd need more than a mere store-bought machine with store-loaded programs to judge CPU speed by.
Regardless of its effectiveness, the Auslogics Registry Defrag looks and functions much like the Auslogics Disk Defrag. When you run it, it tells you that it will perform a registry analysis, after which you will be able to review its registry report, and once that's done with you can run the registry optimization, requiring a reboot to defrag and compact the registry.
It's a fairly serious program, and once you begin the analysis it won't let you move the mouse outside the program window. It also "strongly recommends" that users close all other programs while it runs, although this is a standard warning for registry cleaning apps.
After having run the program on my main work machine, a Windows XP box that sees an average of four to six programs installed and then uninstalled per day, not to mention having an average of two dozen Firefox tabs open, a registry sweeper should make the computer run faster. Even though I run disk defraggers a couple of times a week and keep a vigilant watch on resources, I expected an empirical yet noticeable change in CPU speed.
That never materialized. Resource-intensive programs like Internet browsers and e-mail clients may be piggish, but they're necessary. They didn't load any faster or slower than normal after running the reg defrag. It may be that I'll only notice after a few days or so, but until a registry defragger or cleaner can demonstrate benchmarkable improvements to a computer, they'll be little more than 21st century snake oil.
The empirical, Friday afternoon answer is: it's hard to tell. If that sounds familiar to those of you who've used other registry cleaners and their siblings, it should. It's hard to gauge if these programs are effective because once you're done using it, you'd need more than a mere store-bought machine with store-loaded programs to judge CPU speed by.
Regardless of its effectiveness, the Auslogics Registry Defrag looks and functions much like the Auslogics Disk Defrag. When you run it, it tells you that it will perform a registry analysis, after which you will be able to review its registry report, and once that's done with you can run the registry optimization, requiring a reboot to defrag and compact the registry.
It's a fairly serious program, and once you begin the analysis it won't let you move the mouse outside the program window. It also "strongly recommends" that users close all other programs while it runs, although this is a standard warning for registry cleaning apps.
After having run the program on my main work machine, a Windows XP box that sees an average of four to six programs installed and then uninstalled per day, not to mention having an average of two dozen Firefox tabs open, a registry sweeper should make the computer run faster. Even though I run disk defraggers a couple of times a week and keep a vigilant watch on resources, I expected an empirical yet noticeable change in CPU speed.
That never materialized. Resource-intensive programs like Internet browsers and e-mail clients may be piggish, but they're necessary. They didn't load any faster or slower than normal after running the reg defrag. It may be that I'll only notice after a few days or so, but until a registry defragger or cleaner can demonstrate benchmarkable improvements to a computer, they'll be little more than 21st century snake oil.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Killer Download: Speed up your system by cleaning your registry
As a frequent downloader of new software, I test and review a ton of programs on my PC at work. But after installing and uninstalling so many programs, it doesn't take long for my registry to become a complete mess, which causes errors, sluggishness, and sometimes even crashes. The problem is that not all programs uninstall as easily as they install and often registry entries are left to stagnate in your system and may eventually cause problems.
To keep my registry lean and mean, I run a quick scan of registry entries using software designed to root out the garbage left behind by uninstalled programs. These apps check my registry for rogue entries so I can decide whether I want to delete them. Some programs also give me a description of what specific registry entries were once used for, thereby allowing me to decide whether I still need them.
A word of warning: Be extremely careful when deleting files from your registry. Some entries have strange names that you won't be able to identify, but might be necessary to run your favorite program or even your system software. A good rule of thumb might be that you only delete entries that you are sure are related to programs you no longer use. With that said, here are my three favorites for regular registry maintenance.
To keep my registry lean and mean, I run a quick scan of registry entries using software designed to root out the garbage left behind by uninstalled programs. These apps check my registry for rogue entries so I can decide whether I want to delete them. Some programs also give me a description of what specific registry entries were once used for, thereby allowing me to decide whether I still need them.
A word of warning: Be extremely careful when deleting files from your registry. Some entries have strange names that you won't be able to identify, but might be necessary to run your favorite program or even your system software. A good rule of thumb might be that you only delete entries that you are sure are related to programs you no longer use. With that said, here are my three favorites for regular registry maintenance.
Monday, October 15, 2007
FixWinReg Settles Washington Spyware Charges
Company sent bogus 'security alerts' to computer users. Washington State Attorney General Rob McKenna has reached a settlement with one of three California-based Internet affiliate advertisers accused of violating the state’s consumer protection and spyware laws.
HoanVinh V. Nguyenphuoc, owner of FixWinReg, sent anonymous “Net Send” messages to consumers’ computers that simulated security warnings but were actually ads for registry-cleaner software, according to documents filed today in King County Superior Court.
“Affiliate marketers and online merchants have enjoyed a certain level of anonymity, but they aren’t out of our reach,” McKenna said. “We’ve repeatedly proven that we will hold Internet companies accountable for violating our consumer protection and spyware laws.
“Internet advertisers must follow the same rules which apply to businesses that promote their products through TV, radio or print,” McKenna continued. “They must be truthful about any claims concerning a product’s cost or performance. Inducing a computer user to download software by falsely claiming the program is necessary for security purposes is unethical and illegal.”
The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection High-Tech Unit sued Nguyenphuoc, of Redondo Beach, Calif., and others in February 2007 for allegedly marketing registry-cleaner programs through the use of Net Send messages and deceptive free scans and for transmitting bundled software that changes Internet browser home pages.
Civil charges are still pending against Secure Links Networks LLC and CEO Manuel Corona, Jr., of Brea, and NJC Softwares LCC and company officer Rudy O. Corella, of Lake Elsinore.
The state alleges they worked together to market each other’s products, including Registry Sweeper Pro, Registry Rinse, Registry Doc, Registry Cleaner 32 and Registry Cleaner Pro.
According to court documents, Net Send messages sent by Nguyenphuoc informed computer users that their PCs contained registry errors and immediate attention was necessary to avoid data loss and corruption.
The phony security warnings directed users to a Web site where they were encouraged to download a free trial version of the software that will scan their computer for registry errors.
Assistant Attorney General Katherine Tassi, who led the state’s investigation, said the free scan always identified ‘critical errors.” In order to remove the errors, consumers were instructed to buy the full version of the software.
“Based on the defendants’ deceptive marketing, hundreds of Washington consumers paid $29.95 or more to remove files from their computer that in some cases were harmless,” Tassi said.
Nguyenphuoc will pay $25,000 in attorneys’ costs and fees. He’ll pay an additional $75,000 in civil penalties if he fails to comply with the settlement, which prohibits him from using Net Send messages to promote products or services and making other misrepresentations.
The Attorney General’s Office has brought five lawsuits under the state’s Computer Spyware Act passed in 2005.
to computer users
HoanVinh V. Nguyenphuoc, owner of FixWinReg, sent anonymous “Net Send” messages to consumers’ computers that simulated security warnings but were actually ads for registry-cleaner software, according to documents filed today in King County Superior Court.
“Affiliate marketers and online merchants have enjoyed a certain level of anonymity, but they aren’t out of our reach,” McKenna said. “We’ve repeatedly proven that we will hold Internet companies accountable for violating our consumer protection and spyware laws.
“Internet advertisers must follow the same rules which apply to businesses that promote their products through TV, radio or print,” McKenna continued. “They must be truthful about any claims concerning a product’s cost or performance. Inducing a computer user to download software by falsely claiming the program is necessary for security purposes is unethical and illegal.”
The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection High-Tech Unit sued Nguyenphuoc, of Redondo Beach, Calif., and others in February 2007 for allegedly marketing registry-cleaner programs through the use of Net Send messages and deceptive free scans and for transmitting bundled software that changes Internet browser home pages.
Civil charges are still pending against Secure Links Networks LLC and CEO Manuel Corona, Jr., of Brea, and NJC Softwares LCC and company officer Rudy O. Corella, of Lake Elsinore.
The state alleges they worked together to market each other’s products, including Registry Sweeper Pro, Registry Rinse, Registry Doc, Registry Cleaner 32 and Registry Cleaner Pro.
According to court documents, Net Send messages sent by Nguyenphuoc informed computer users that their PCs contained registry errors and immediate attention was necessary to avoid data loss and corruption.
The phony security warnings directed users to a Web site where they were encouraged to download a free trial version of the software that will scan their computer for registry errors.
Assistant Attorney General Katherine Tassi, who led the state’s investigation, said the free scan always identified ‘critical errors.” In order to remove the errors, consumers were instructed to buy the full version of the software.
“Based on the defendants’ deceptive marketing, hundreds of Washington consumers paid $29.95 or more to remove files from their computer that in some cases were harmless,” Tassi said.
Nguyenphuoc will pay $25,000 in attorneys’ costs and fees. He’ll pay an additional $75,000 in civil penalties if he fails to comply with the settlement, which prohibits him from using Net Send messages to promote products or services and making other misrepresentations.
The Attorney General’s Office has brought five lawsuits under the state’s Computer Spyware Act passed in 2005.
to computer users
Friday, September 21, 2007
Vista Moving From Lethargy To Curiosity
Since the release of Vista in January of this year, I have witnessed a lethargy toward this new Microsoft operating system. Recently I have noticed a departure from the lethargy to one of curiosity.
Question: Why Vista?
The answer to this question could take more space than is available in this column. Vista is a new and exciting experience that arouses the spirit of accomplishment. The software has been well prepared in allowing users to tailor it to their own liking. There are four distinct editions with one to fit your individual desires and needs:
1. Home Basic is for those who want a "bare-bones" operating system for Web surfing, e-mail and the sense of security.
2. The Home Premium edition adds more features including the elegant Aero desktop (best choice for laptops), collaborating and sharing documents, extending Vista to secondary displays and sideshows to experience photos and entertainment with Windows Media Center.
3. The Business edition is excellent if that is your desire and need.
4. The Ultimate edition encompasses all of the above plus protection against hardware failure, Windows Fax and Scan, scheduled backup to automatically backup your files, remote desktop connection, network and sharing center, Windows Bitlocker drive encryption, Windows DVD Maker, premium games and Movie Maker in high definition.
For a sample of the choices you have to make Vista your system: Right-click the desktop; a screen will appear that allows you, by clicking Personalization, to change Windows colors and appearance, select a desktop background, select a screensaver, alter the sounds, etc. These are just some of the reasons for you to consider joining the millions who already have an edition of Vista on their PCs. If you have any questions or need assistance you can get them here: RJWhelpful4u@aol.com.
If this sounds like a commercial for Vista, far be it! These are my true feeling for this system, and the longer I work with it the more I enjoy it and welcome the change and challenge. I have in previous columns alluded to some of the pitfalls and things that can be disturbing, but like all new things, it has its bugs to be exterminated.
Question: What are Microsoft Power Toys?
They are tools, but Microsoft calls them toys. They are additional programs that developers work on after a product has been released. Microsoft states, "We take great care to ensure that Power Toys work as they should, but they are not supported by Microsoft. For this reason, Microsoft technical support is unable to answer questions about Power Toys." Power Toys are for Windows XP only and will not work on Vista. You can check them out at www.microsoftpowertoys.com. Set a restore point and enjoy.
Question: Can I restore the registry through system restore?
Yes, but bear in mind that when you use system restore, you are losing all of your input after you set the restore point. If your registry is in trouble and you have a suitable restore point, go for it. Check the date of the restore point and you will know how much input you have lost. Another drawback is if the restore point doesn't work, you can try another and another, then your alternative is a full reinstall. I recommend a full and complete backup at the end of each session. Then, if you have an emergency, you only lose one day's input. I also recommend a separate registry backup; then, if a problem occurs, you will be recovering only the registry and not the entire operating system. Problems with the registry that call for a recovery are an indication of an underlying cause. After the recovery, run the Free Registry Cleaner from Eusing, Ccleaner and Advanced Windows Care, Personal Edition - all are freeware. Then run the free registry defrag. If you still have a problem, contact me!
Question: I have taken your advice and backed up. How often do you suggest?
I know, backing up is about as much fun as a root canal, but it's a lot less painful. Think of it like putting a broken arm in a cast, only in this case, the cast never comes off! How often? Every time you use your computer! I know you think I'm paranoid, but weigh a few minutes of back-up time against hours of reinstallation. System restore is an alternative but not as good or dependable as a full backup.
Tweak and Tune (www.tweakandtune.com) is a utility that helps you fashion XP to you own desires. Prior to digging in, set a restore point. Some of the changes can be dangerous.
Question: My hard drive died. What can I do?
If you have a full backup, a hard drive replacement is necessary. That eliminates the trauma of a full system reinstall. The cost of the hard drive depends on what you choose and its capacity. Forget the installation cost and do it yourself. If you can use a screwdriver, you can save upwards of $45 or $50. That way you will have the old drive that is full of your personal information. Have someone else replace it and they have your old drive. All new drives come with a set of instructions for the installation. While you are in the tower, it would be a good time to clean the dust from the fans and/or add additional memory. So, there is always some good that can come from distress.
Here is a situation that I have mentioned on several occasions: the devious manner in which some companies attempt to lure unsuspecting PC owners to become customers and subscribe to their software. Case in point: As part of my tinkering, I recently downloaded RegSweep and ran a scan. It found 144 errors in the registry. Now, I have four of the best registry cleaners around, and I ran them one-at-a-time then I re-ran RegSweep. It came up with 143 errors. Pure scare tactics, since all of these errors would cause my PC to crash. To get rid of all of that bad stuff you have to register (pay for) the software. The alleged errors are part and parcel of their "teaseware." I have also come across the same situation with the Advanced Registry Optimizer. Do not take their stuff as fact. Be very cautious when surfing the Web. Some of these come-on offers can be bringing along "drive-by" malware.
Next week we get back to XP with "tweaks, tips, and tricks" to spruce up the software (sort of like a lube and oil change) and more of your questions like "Why does it take so long for my computer to start up?" Same old, same old, but I shall deal with it. Stay well! - Ray Wilson
Question: Why Vista?
The answer to this question could take more space than is available in this column. Vista is a new and exciting experience that arouses the spirit of accomplishment. The software has been well prepared in allowing users to tailor it to their own liking. There are four distinct editions with one to fit your individual desires and needs:
1. Home Basic is for those who want a "bare-bones" operating system for Web surfing, e-mail and the sense of security.
2. The Home Premium edition adds more features including the elegant Aero desktop (best choice for laptops), collaborating and sharing documents, extending Vista to secondary displays and sideshows to experience photos and entertainment with Windows Media Center.
3. The Business edition is excellent if that is your desire and need.
4. The Ultimate edition encompasses all of the above plus protection against hardware failure, Windows Fax and Scan, scheduled backup to automatically backup your files, remote desktop connection, network and sharing center, Windows Bitlocker drive encryption, Windows DVD Maker, premium games and Movie Maker in high definition.
For a sample of the choices you have to make Vista your system: Right-click the desktop; a screen will appear that allows you, by clicking Personalization, to change Windows colors and appearance, select a desktop background, select a screensaver, alter the sounds, etc. These are just some of the reasons for you to consider joining the millions who already have an edition of Vista on their PCs. If you have any questions or need assistance you can get them here: RJWhelpful4u@aol.com.
If this sounds like a commercial for Vista, far be it! These are my true feeling for this system, and the longer I work with it the more I enjoy it and welcome the change and challenge. I have in previous columns alluded to some of the pitfalls and things that can be disturbing, but like all new things, it has its bugs to be exterminated.
Question: What are Microsoft Power Toys?
They are tools, but Microsoft calls them toys. They are additional programs that developers work on after a product has been released. Microsoft states, "We take great care to ensure that Power Toys work as they should, but they are not supported by Microsoft. For this reason, Microsoft technical support is unable to answer questions about Power Toys." Power Toys are for Windows XP only and will not work on Vista. You can check them out at www.microsoftpowertoys.com. Set a restore point and enjoy.
Question: Can I restore the registry through system restore?
Yes, but bear in mind that when you use system restore, you are losing all of your input after you set the restore point. If your registry is in trouble and you have a suitable restore point, go for it. Check the date of the restore point and you will know how much input you have lost. Another drawback is if the restore point doesn't work, you can try another and another, then your alternative is a full reinstall. I recommend a full and complete backup at the end of each session. Then, if you have an emergency, you only lose one day's input. I also recommend a separate registry backup; then, if a problem occurs, you will be recovering only the registry and not the entire operating system. Problems with the registry that call for a recovery are an indication of an underlying cause. After the recovery, run the Free Registry Cleaner from Eusing, Ccleaner and Advanced Windows Care, Personal Edition - all are freeware. Then run the free registry defrag. If you still have a problem, contact me!
Question: I have taken your advice and backed up. How often do you suggest?
I know, backing up is about as much fun as a root canal, but it's a lot less painful. Think of it like putting a broken arm in a cast, only in this case, the cast never comes off! How often? Every time you use your computer! I know you think I'm paranoid, but weigh a few minutes of back-up time against hours of reinstallation. System restore is an alternative but not as good or dependable as a full backup.
Tweak and Tune (www.tweakandtune.com) is a utility that helps you fashion XP to you own desires. Prior to digging in, set a restore point. Some of the changes can be dangerous.
Question: My hard drive died. What can I do?
If you have a full backup, a hard drive replacement is necessary. That eliminates the trauma of a full system reinstall. The cost of the hard drive depends on what you choose and its capacity. Forget the installation cost and do it yourself. If you can use a screwdriver, you can save upwards of $45 or $50. That way you will have the old drive that is full of your personal information. Have someone else replace it and they have your old drive. All new drives come with a set of instructions for the installation. While you are in the tower, it would be a good time to clean the dust from the fans and/or add additional memory. So, there is always some good that can come from distress.
Here is a situation that I have mentioned on several occasions: the devious manner in which some companies attempt to lure unsuspecting PC owners to become customers and subscribe to their software. Case in point: As part of my tinkering, I recently downloaded RegSweep and ran a scan. It found 144 errors in the registry. Now, I have four of the best registry cleaners around, and I ran them one-at-a-time then I re-ran RegSweep. It came up with 143 errors. Pure scare tactics, since all of these errors would cause my PC to crash. To get rid of all of that bad stuff you have to register (pay for) the software. The alleged errors are part and parcel of their "teaseware." I have also come across the same situation with the Advanced Registry Optimizer. Do not take their stuff as fact. Be very cautious when surfing the Web. Some of these come-on offers can be bringing along "drive-by" malware.
Next week we get back to XP with "tweaks, tips, and tricks" to spruce up the software (sort of like a lube and oil change) and more of your questions like "Why does it take so long for my computer to start up?" Same old, same old, but I shall deal with it. Stay well! - Ray Wilson
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Vista Registry Fix - Get the Maximum Efficiency Out of your System
There are various symptoms of registry related problems, some of which may be identified as overall slow performance of your system, untimely error messages while working with your Windows Vista, or sudden crash of your system. In other words, registry problems make your system behave in such a way, which it should not or you do not want it to behave. The remedy for this problem is to go for Vista registry fix.
Now, for fixing the registry, the utmost important thing for your concern is to get a Vista registry cleaner. However, beforehand, you need to understand what exactly is the Windows Registry or simply Vista registry. The Windows Registry is a hierarchical database of settings that is used by Vista to store the information relevant to its configuration, application, hardware and software files. Whenever an application is opened in your system, the registry adds information to it and this process follows for every application that is opened in your system. With the prolonged use of Windows applications, the registry can get cluttered with information, which many a time may no longer be required or becomes irrelevant. Therefore, in such situations you need to perform an instant Vista registry fix, and for this you need to use a Vista registry cleaner.
The registry cleaner enables you to remove the various inconsistencies in the Windows Registry and thereby helps in enhancing the performance of your system. The primary function of the registry cleaner is to scan your Windows Vista efficiently and effectively, and delete the various unnecessary entries in the Windows Registry. A good registry cleaner always offers registry backups before deleting the unused registry entries so that whenever you need any particular registry entry in the near future, you can restore immediately. It also deletes the registry entries made by spyware and adware programs to provide network security to some extent. So, using the Vista registry cleaner, you can perform Vista registry fix to keep your Windows Registry up-to-date and also schedule, backup and restore the registry according to your convenience.
Now, for fixing the registry, the utmost important thing for your concern is to get a Vista registry cleaner. However, beforehand, you need to understand what exactly is the Windows Registry or simply Vista registry. The Windows Registry is a hierarchical database of settings that is used by Vista to store the information relevant to its configuration, application, hardware and software files. Whenever an application is opened in your system, the registry adds information to it and this process follows for every application that is opened in your system. With the prolonged use of Windows applications, the registry can get cluttered with information, which many a time may no longer be required or becomes irrelevant. Therefore, in such situations you need to perform an instant Vista registry fix, and for this you need to use a Vista registry cleaner.
The registry cleaner enables you to remove the various inconsistencies in the Windows Registry and thereby helps in enhancing the performance of your system. The primary function of the registry cleaner is to scan your Windows Vista efficiently and effectively, and delete the various unnecessary entries in the Windows Registry. A good registry cleaner always offers registry backups before deleting the unused registry entries so that whenever you need any particular registry entry in the near future, you can restore immediately. It also deletes the registry entries made by spyware and adware programs to provide network security to some extent. So, using the Vista registry cleaner, you can perform Vista registry fix to keep your Windows Registry up-to-date and also schedule, backup and restore the registry according to your convenience.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
A little Q & A
Q. I am paranoid about doing anything to my XP PC that may cause a problem. You often suggest using a hard disk cleaner called CleanUp and a registry cleaner called Regseeker. Are these programs necessary? What do they do and will they cause me any problems?
A. . CleanUp is relatively safe (99 per cent) as it simply cleans up cookies, internet history, and temporary internet files, etc. I use it daily and apart from freeing up disk space it reduces the risk of getting viruses and spyware from all the rubbish that is downloaded to your system every time you open a web page.
On first use, set the options to Standard and you should be fine. If in doubt, make a backup of valuable data. CleanUp will not greatly improve system speed and, while free, the author does appreciate donations. It works on XP and Vista.
Regseeker is also relatively safe (90 per cent) but it is more invasive as it cleans the registry of unused and obsolete entries. It makes a backup that can be restored if there is a problem. The only issue I have ever had was with a multifunctioning printer that refused to work after running Regseeker. I use it monthly and it typically removes 200-plus obsolete entries. The first time you run it you may be shocked - it will find several hundred items. It will improve system speed. It works with XP and Vista but you need to have administrator privileges (UAC) to run with the latter.
If you want to purchase a commercial program that does what CleanUp and Regseeker do, look at PC Tools Desktop Mechanic (www.pctools.com/desktop-mechanic). Commercial programs have a duty of care not to harm your PC and to provide user support. Free ones generally do not.
Warning: There are hundreds of free programs that all offer to do something marvellous. But Windows performs sufficiently well not to worry about memory and download accelerators, world time checkers, obscure cleaners, smiley faces or anything else. The strongest advice is that no one should load any so-called free program other than ones that I, or readers, have checked out and are pretty sure are OK.
A. . CleanUp is relatively safe (99 per cent) as it simply cleans up cookies, internet history, and temporary internet files, etc. I use it daily and apart from freeing up disk space it reduces the risk of getting viruses and spyware from all the rubbish that is downloaded to your system every time you open a web page.
On first use, set the options to Standard and you should be fine. If in doubt, make a backup of valuable data. CleanUp will not greatly improve system speed and, while free, the author does appreciate donations. It works on XP and Vista.
Regseeker is also relatively safe (90 per cent) but it is more invasive as it cleans the registry of unused and obsolete entries. It makes a backup that can be restored if there is a problem. The only issue I have ever had was with a multifunctioning printer that refused to work after running Regseeker. I use it monthly and it typically removes 200-plus obsolete entries. The first time you run it you may be shocked - it will find several hundred items. It will improve system speed. It works with XP and Vista but you need to have administrator privileges (UAC) to run with the latter.
If you want to purchase a commercial program that does what CleanUp and Regseeker do, look at PC Tools Desktop Mechanic (www.pctools.com/desktop-mechanic). Commercial programs have a duty of care not to harm your PC and to provide user support. Free ones generally do not.
Warning: There are hundreds of free programs that all offer to do something marvellous. But Windows performs sufficiently well not to worry about memory and download accelerators, world time checkers, obscure cleaners, smiley faces or anything else. The strongest advice is that no one should load any so-called free program other than ones that I, or readers, have checked out and are pretty sure are OK.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Let ASO spruce up your PC
The care and feeding of your personal computer is a never-ending saga. Sure they are powerful, but don’t be fooled: These temperamental beasts require constant pampering.
There are two ways to approach computer maintenance software. If you’ve got the time to do the research, the best strategy is to build your arsenal of tools piece by piece, selecting only the best applications, regardless of publisher.
It’s a lot like building a computer or stereo system - matching up the best components to get the job done. If price matters, this method is also the most expensive.
The second approach involves minimal time, effort and expense. Instead of piecing together your software, why not just buy an all-in-one package that has everything you need and more? Besides, when all your tools come from the same box, compatibility issues are nonexistent. Good software suites also share a common interface, making it all easier to learn and use.
The all-in-one software package that has my eye these days is Advanced System Optimizer, or ASO, from Systweak Inc. Now at version 2.01, ASO features a stunning array of more than 30 tools for fine-tuning, cleaning and repairing your PC, including more than 200 tweaks to customize Windows and improve its performance.
The program’s main interface gives you instant access to every tool in the suite, divided into nine categories. Here are some highlights from ASO V2:
● System Cleaner tools can help you revive a sluggish system. Here you can find and remove junk that litters your system, hidden in places you’d never find on your own. This tool will locate all duplicate and temporary files from every corner of your hard drive.
You’ll also find tools to back up and clean your Windows registry, as well as manage exactly what loads at Windows startup.
● System Optimizer offers a nice array of tools to defragment and optimize memory - both physical RAM and Windows resources.
You can also defrag and optimize the Window registry, after making a back up and restore point, of course. This section contains that massive collection of 200-plus Windows tweaks, all nicely grouped and easy to understand.
● System Tools includes such items as System Information, which scans your hardware and software and presents a detailed report - extremely useful for tech support and troubleshooting.
The System Analyzer and Advisor take this information and offer tweaks to improve performance. There’s also a tool for viewing detailed information about any of your files and folders.
● Privacy and security tools include a new Spyware Detective that scans your media for bad stuff your firewall or antivirus software might have missed. To secure your data, there’s a data shredder that prevents recovery of deleted files and tools to erase your tracks in all aspects of computer use.
The list of mini-apps and tools just keeps on going. There are tools to repair corrupt .zip files, split and join large files, manage your Windows log-in settings, blacklist and block certain programs from running on your system and encrypt files or folders for security.
There are even some tools here you wouldn’t expect in a system optimizer, like sticky pad reminders, appointment planner, media files organizer and a host of aesthetic options to personalize your operating system.
Absolutely busting with features, Advanced System Optimizer Version 2 is available for Windows XP and Vista, currently discounted to $35.95 at the Systweak Web site, www.systweak.com. Take ASO for a test drive before you buy, and while you’re there, check out the rest of Systweak’s impressive product line.
There are two ways to approach computer maintenance software. If you’ve got the time to do the research, the best strategy is to build your arsenal of tools piece by piece, selecting only the best applications, regardless of publisher.
It’s a lot like building a computer or stereo system - matching up the best components to get the job done. If price matters, this method is also the most expensive.
The second approach involves minimal time, effort and expense. Instead of piecing together your software, why not just buy an all-in-one package that has everything you need and more? Besides, when all your tools come from the same box, compatibility issues are nonexistent. Good software suites also share a common interface, making it all easier to learn and use.
The all-in-one software package that has my eye these days is Advanced System Optimizer, or ASO, from Systweak Inc. Now at version 2.01, ASO features a stunning array of more than 30 tools for fine-tuning, cleaning and repairing your PC, including more than 200 tweaks to customize Windows and improve its performance.
The program’s main interface gives you instant access to every tool in the suite, divided into nine categories. Here are some highlights from ASO V2:
● System Cleaner tools can help you revive a sluggish system. Here you can find and remove junk that litters your system, hidden in places you’d never find on your own. This tool will locate all duplicate and temporary files from every corner of your hard drive.
You’ll also find tools to back up and clean your Windows registry, as well as manage exactly what loads at Windows startup.
● System Optimizer offers a nice array of tools to defragment and optimize memory - both physical RAM and Windows resources.
You can also defrag and optimize the Window registry, after making a back up and restore point, of course. This section contains that massive collection of 200-plus Windows tweaks, all nicely grouped and easy to understand.
● System Tools includes such items as System Information, which scans your hardware and software and presents a detailed report - extremely useful for tech support and troubleshooting.
The System Analyzer and Advisor take this information and offer tweaks to improve performance. There’s also a tool for viewing detailed information about any of your files and folders.
● Privacy and security tools include a new Spyware Detective that scans your media for bad stuff your firewall or antivirus software might have missed. To secure your data, there’s a data shredder that prevents recovery of deleted files and tools to erase your tracks in all aspects of computer use.
The list of mini-apps and tools just keeps on going. There are tools to repair corrupt .zip files, split and join large files, manage your Windows log-in settings, blacklist and block certain programs from running on your system and encrypt files or folders for security.
There are even some tools here you wouldn’t expect in a system optimizer, like sticky pad reminders, appointment planner, media files organizer and a host of aesthetic options to personalize your operating system.
Absolutely busting with features, Advanced System Optimizer Version 2 is available for Windows XP and Vista, currently discounted to $35.95 at the Systweak Web site, www.systweak.com. Take ASO for a test drive before you buy, and while you’re there, check out the rest of Systweak’s impressive product line.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
AppSpout: Recent Reviews from the PCMag.com Software Team
Two big new apps have come across the PC Magazine software team's desk recently: BitDefender Total Security 2008 and Adobe Premiere Pro CS3. The latest version of BitDefender's full-featured security suite has a snazzy new interface with tough-as-nails protection against viruses and spyware. The Firewall and Registry Cleaner could use some work, but it's still worth a look. Check out the full details in this in-depth review.
You can pretty much always count on Adobe to deliver top notch software, and Premiere Pro CS3 is no exception. This expert video editing tool offers an extensive feature set with help from new third party apps like Encore CS3. It was impressive enough to earn our Editor's Choice award. Find out more in this full review. While you're at it, come check out other recent reviews from the software team after the jump.
Adobe Acrobat 8 Standard: Acrobat isn't cheap, but it's the gold standard for PDF editing. It offers flexible, feature-packed PDF creation, editing, commenting, and import-export. Letting you translate an entire Web site into a single multipage PDF and create and embed an index in PDF files for fast searching.
deskPDF Professional: This easy-to-use PDF creator makes turning docs into PDFs as easy as dragging and dropping. It offers straightforward PDF creation through a Microsoft Office toolbar button or a desktop icon, and even converts Office file comments to PDF annotations.
PDF Converter Professional 4: This app lacks the polish of its rival, Adobe Acrobat 8 Standard, but it does have superior OCR and export features. Not to mention a much more appealing price tag.
EasyBib.com: This site makes creating bibliographies quick and painless. No more hunting down your own references and figuring out how to arrange the information. EasyBib takes the info and puts it into MLA format for you--a huge help for students or researchers.
SpaceTime beta 0.9: SpaceTime will introduce you to a new way of searching and browsing the Web--if you have a PC with enough oomph. SpaceTime features a beautiful interface that lets you surf the web in 3D.
Cozi.com: If you're looking to make sense of your busy family life, Cozi can help. This free service provides a family calendar, a shopping list, and messaging online or via a downloadable program. It's low on features, but the ones it has are excellent and easy to use.
Eyejot: A terrific little service, Eyejot lets you record and send a video message with the same speed and ease as composing an e-mail.
WinUtilities 5.72: WinUtilities is a highly useful set of Windows utilities, particularly when it comes to system-cleaning tasks. But it's not cheap, and it doesn't do everything.
You can pretty much always count on Adobe to deliver top notch software, and Premiere Pro CS3 is no exception. This expert video editing tool offers an extensive feature set with help from new third party apps like Encore CS3. It was impressive enough to earn our Editor's Choice award. Find out more in this full review. While you're at it, come check out other recent reviews from the software team after the jump.
Adobe Acrobat 8 Standard: Acrobat isn't cheap, but it's the gold standard for PDF editing. It offers flexible, feature-packed PDF creation, editing, commenting, and import-export. Letting you translate an entire Web site into a single multipage PDF and create and embed an index in PDF files for fast searching.
deskPDF Professional: This easy-to-use PDF creator makes turning docs into PDFs as easy as dragging and dropping. It offers straightforward PDF creation through a Microsoft Office toolbar button or a desktop icon, and even converts Office file comments to PDF annotations.
PDF Converter Professional 4: This app lacks the polish of its rival, Adobe Acrobat 8 Standard, but it does have superior OCR and export features. Not to mention a much more appealing price tag.
EasyBib.com: This site makes creating bibliographies quick and painless. No more hunting down your own references and figuring out how to arrange the information. EasyBib takes the info and puts it into MLA format for you--a huge help for students or researchers.
SpaceTime beta 0.9: SpaceTime will introduce you to a new way of searching and browsing the Web--if you have a PC with enough oomph. SpaceTime features a beautiful interface that lets you surf the web in 3D.
Cozi.com: If you're looking to make sense of your busy family life, Cozi can help. This free service provides a family calendar, a shopping list, and messaging online or via a downloadable program. It's low on features, but the ones it has are excellent and easy to use.
Eyejot: A terrific little service, Eyejot lets you record and send a video message with the same speed and ease as composing an e-mail.
WinUtilities 5.72: WinUtilities is a highly useful set of Windows utilities, particularly when it comes to system-cleaning tasks. But it's not cheap, and it doesn't do everything.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
BitDefender Total Security 2008
BitDefender vows to "secure your every bit," and BitDefender Total Security 2008 works hard to keep that promise. It includes the essential firewall, antivirus, and antispyware modules as well spam protection and parental control. This version adds a backup module and system tune-up tools, putting it head-to-head with Symantec's Norton 360 and Microsoft's Windows Live OneCare. A completely new user interface makes the product much easier to use, even for those without an advanced degree in computer security. The price looks a little high, but it covers three installations for two years: Most suite prices cover just one year. And you get unlimited 24/7 tech support by phone, e-mail, or live chat.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Wise Registry Cleaner
Wise Registry Cleaner scans Windows registry for incorrect or obsolete information in the registry. By fixing this obsolete information, your system will become quick and can work better.
After Wise Registry Cleaner analyzes your system for problems, you can individually view each of the problems found and call for a detailed description. If you wish, you can also have all problems corrected automatically.
All changes to your system are monitored by Wise Registry Cleaner and can be undone with a few mouse clicks.
After Wise Registry Cleaner analyzes your system for problems, you can individually view each of the problems found and call for a detailed description. If you wish, you can also have all problems corrected automatically.
All changes to your system are monitored by Wise Registry Cleaner and can be undone with a few mouse clicks.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Old laptops and too many cups of coffee
What should you do with an old laptop that is so slow you have time to down a cup of coffee while it gets ready?
A reader wrote to me recently: "I would be very grateful for your advice on how to make my very old (1999?) Toshiba Satellite 2545CDS laptop work faster and less erratically."
His symptoms may be familiar to you: "Composing this message in Yahoo Mail becomes a hardship. The cursor moves slowly or disappears, to suddenly reappear. The computer is always doing something other than what I want it to do -- the hard disk drive light is flickering madly, the drive is whirring, but the cursor won't move.
"Using the Delete or Back Space key is particularly exciting: you press the key many times and nothing happens until the machine wakes up and wipes out your whole sentence. Appending files to messages takes hours, and when you leave to go to the bathroom the computer has put itself on standby.
"It takes me a whole cup of coffee to wait for the laptop to get ready to do two things simultaneously like proofreading a document in PDF format while listening to AccuRadio Classical."
The reader goes in a similar vein for several pages in the best description of a computer past its sell-by date I've come across. He concludes: "Other friends have told me it is time to buy a new laptop, and I now have a much faster Toshiba Portege."
But understandably, he's reluctant to let go of this piece of hardware, with plenty of hard disk space remaining, and better inboard speakers than its successor. So what to do?
This reader has done the first thing right -- clean the Registry. The Registry on Windows machines is the place where all the information about your programs and settings is stored. Windows refers to this file a lot, so the bigger it is and the more messy it is, the slower your computer runs (and the bigger the chance of errors.) So you should keep it clean.
The easiest way to do this is via a program called CCleaner (no, that's not a typo; the first C stands for something a family paper like this can't mention.) CCleaner is free from here: http://www.ccleaner.com/. Download it.
Then, just to be on the safe side, create a Restore Point in your system in case you don't like what CCleaner does (you'll find System Restore under your Accessories/System Tools menu. CCleaner will also let you save a backup of your registry before making any changes).
When you've created a Restore Point, run the "Scan for Issues" on CCleaner's Issues tab (it may take some time). Then click on the Fix Selected Issues button. When this is finished your Registry should be a lot cleaner -- meaning the computer will be faster. A bit.
Next stop is to defragment the hard drive. This tidies up the files on your hard drive so they will load more quickly and new files can find a place for themselves without having to split into smaller bits. Think of it as cleaning up after a raunchy party: the files are the wine glasses and plates piled up in the sink, the kitchen cupboards are your hard drive where they all need to go.
Windows has a pretty good defragmentation tool called Disk Defragmenter in the same menu as the System Restore program. Run that -- and drink another cup of coffee or six while it's doing it. It could take some time.
This should speed up your computer. But it may not be enough. There could be several reasons for this. One is that the hard drive is overloaded. (If so, delete the big files until at least half the hard drive is empty.)
My reader is clearly not having this problem: He reports using only 1.5 gigabytes of the 4 GB hard disk. In this case, you may be better off cleaning the hard drive of everything and starting again.
This is not a step to be taken lightly: It involves backing up all your data, collecting all your serial numbers and installation disks for software you have, and then canceling all hot dates for a few days as you laboriously reformat your hard drive and install the operating system, the drivers for your external devices, software programs and settings, and then the files you saved from before.
It's like war: boring and scary in equal measure. Boring because watching a progress bar move slowly from left to right isn't fun, and scary because you occasionally get heart-stopping moments where you think you've lost an important file forever, or the whole process stops for no apparent reason.
I wouldn't recommend it, but neither would I recommend you outsource it -- at least until you're absolutely sure you've backed up every single file, e-mail, photo and password you might need again. But if your computer is not responding to lesser measures, this might be the best way to go.
Another tip: If your computer is an old one, don't try to force fancier operating systems onto it. If your computer was made in 1999, for example, chances are it won't like Windows XP very much, for the good reason that XP came out in 2001 and was designed for faster chips than were available back then. Your computer won't like it and will rebel.
Better to have an operating system that's older than the computer. Even better, if the computer is not going to be your main device, ditch Windows altogether and install Ubuntu (www.ubuntu.com), an Open Source (meaning free) operating system that looks a lot like Windows, but will run quite happily on older machines.
You could still play music files, write documents and e-mails or surf the Web on it, and you'll be considered very cool by your friends.
There's always another option: Ditch the laptop and just use the hard drive as external storage for your other computers. But that's for another day.
What is your biggest frustration with technology? An autographed copy of my book for the best or funniest e-mail. Please write to me at jeremy@loose-wire.com .
Jeremy Wagstaff writes a weekly technology column for The Wall Street Journal Asia. His guide to technology, Loose Wire, is available in bookshops or on Amazon. He can be found online at www.loosewireblog.com or via e-mail at jeremy@loose-wire.com.
A reader wrote to me recently: "I would be very grateful for your advice on how to make my very old (1999?) Toshiba Satellite 2545CDS laptop work faster and less erratically."
His symptoms may be familiar to you: "Composing this message in Yahoo Mail becomes a hardship. The cursor moves slowly or disappears, to suddenly reappear. The computer is always doing something other than what I want it to do -- the hard disk drive light is flickering madly, the drive is whirring, but the cursor won't move.
"Using the Delete or Back Space key is particularly exciting: you press the key many times and nothing happens until the machine wakes up and wipes out your whole sentence. Appending files to messages takes hours, and when you leave to go to the bathroom the computer has put itself on standby.
"It takes me a whole cup of coffee to wait for the laptop to get ready to do two things simultaneously like proofreading a document in PDF format while listening to AccuRadio Classical."
The reader goes in a similar vein for several pages in the best description of a computer past its sell-by date I've come across. He concludes: "Other friends have told me it is time to buy a new laptop, and I now have a much faster Toshiba Portege."
But understandably, he's reluctant to let go of this piece of hardware, with plenty of hard disk space remaining, and better inboard speakers than its successor. So what to do?
This reader has done the first thing right -- clean the Registry. The Registry on Windows machines is the place where all the information about your programs and settings is stored. Windows refers to this file a lot, so the bigger it is and the more messy it is, the slower your computer runs (and the bigger the chance of errors.) So you should keep it clean.
The easiest way to do this is via a program called CCleaner (no, that's not a typo; the first C stands for something a family paper like this can't mention.) CCleaner is free from here: http://www.ccleaner.com/. Download it.
Then, just to be on the safe side, create a Restore Point in your system in case you don't like what CCleaner does (you'll find System Restore under your Accessories/System Tools menu. CCleaner will also let you save a backup of your registry before making any changes).
When you've created a Restore Point, run the "Scan for Issues" on CCleaner's Issues tab (it may take some time). Then click on the Fix Selected Issues button. When this is finished your Registry should be a lot cleaner -- meaning the computer will be faster. A bit.
Next stop is to defragment the hard drive. This tidies up the files on your hard drive so they will load more quickly and new files can find a place for themselves without having to split into smaller bits. Think of it as cleaning up after a raunchy party: the files are the wine glasses and plates piled up in the sink, the kitchen cupboards are your hard drive where they all need to go.
Windows has a pretty good defragmentation tool called Disk Defragmenter in the same menu as the System Restore program. Run that -- and drink another cup of coffee or six while it's doing it. It could take some time.
This should speed up your computer. But it may not be enough. There could be several reasons for this. One is that the hard drive is overloaded. (If so, delete the big files until at least half the hard drive is empty.)
My reader is clearly not having this problem: He reports using only 1.5 gigabytes of the 4 GB hard disk. In this case, you may be better off cleaning the hard drive of everything and starting again.
This is not a step to be taken lightly: It involves backing up all your data, collecting all your serial numbers and installation disks for software you have, and then canceling all hot dates for a few days as you laboriously reformat your hard drive and install the operating system, the drivers for your external devices, software programs and settings, and then the files you saved from before.
It's like war: boring and scary in equal measure. Boring because watching a progress bar move slowly from left to right isn't fun, and scary because you occasionally get heart-stopping moments where you think you've lost an important file forever, or the whole process stops for no apparent reason.
I wouldn't recommend it, but neither would I recommend you outsource it -- at least until you're absolutely sure you've backed up every single file, e-mail, photo and password you might need again. But if your computer is not responding to lesser measures, this might be the best way to go.
Another tip: If your computer is an old one, don't try to force fancier operating systems onto it. If your computer was made in 1999, for example, chances are it won't like Windows XP very much, for the good reason that XP came out in 2001 and was designed for faster chips than were available back then. Your computer won't like it and will rebel.
Better to have an operating system that's older than the computer. Even better, if the computer is not going to be your main device, ditch Windows altogether and install Ubuntu (www.ubuntu.com), an Open Source (meaning free) operating system that looks a lot like Windows, but will run quite happily on older machines.
You could still play music files, write documents and e-mails or surf the Web on it, and you'll be considered very cool by your friends.
There's always another option: Ditch the laptop and just use the hard drive as external storage for your other computers. But that's for another day.
What is your biggest frustration with technology? An autographed copy of my book for the best or funniest e-mail. Please write to me at jeremy@loose-wire.com .
Jeremy Wagstaff writes a weekly technology column for The Wall Street Journal Asia. His guide to technology, Loose Wire, is available in bookshops or on Amazon. He can be found online at www.loosewireblog.com or via e-mail at jeremy@loose-wire.com.
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