please recommend best tune-up utility

[Comdrpopnfresh]

Looking for something to automatically keep my systems in a healthy state, keep the cobwebs cleared out, optimize and maintain the registry, etc.
Free is best, but if a program provides much better function, performance, and quality, I'd pay (given it's rel well priced)
I've used trials of tuneup utilities and advanced systemcare with some satisfaction in the pastr, but haven't used/followed those or other similar software for some time.

 

[lxskllr]

None. They're all junk. The best thing you can do with a computer is not dick with it.

 

[seepy83]

None. They're all junk. The best thing you can do with a computer is not dick with it.

I agree with this.

If your computer is in a state where there are lots of unwanted programs installed, miscellaneous registry keys left by old software or malware, etc., then your best bet is to backup your important data, wipe your disk, and start with a fresh install of Windows.

 

[boochi]

Yamicsoft Windows 7 Manager works pretty well but, be careful and backup the registry when you make changes.

http://www.yamicsoft.com/windows7manager/index.html

 

[ShadowVVL]

i second lxskllr &seepy ,do a reinstall of windows its like magic your computer will run like the day you bought it and it cost nothing, I recommend doing it once every 6 months or atleast once every year.

also get a second drive if you can and save your pic videos ect on it.

 

[Sid59]

CCleaner is good if you want a central program tp:
- clear system restore points
- clear browser cache
- Uninstall unused programs
- modify start up programs

I would call it a tune-up but housekeeping. If you're using Win7 or Vista, it should auto-defrag. If not, Defraggler (same developer of CCleaner) is good.

 

[Comdrpopnfresh]

I've been a frequenter of reinstalls- to a point I can't put up with any more. All the settings, customizations, and configurations I place on the OS and installed programs (as well as the installation of said programs) seem too immense to replicate outside of instances of new hardware being added, or a S.O.L. situation that occurs by accident.
I looked into imaging my install right at the point of finishing all the adjustments- but getting to there takes enough time and effort that it seemed like achieving that 'fresh' state without populating the system from using it it not doable.
Isn't there a lot of leftover 'sludge' just from the updating and use of programs?

 

[lxskllr]

Isn't there a lot of leftover 'sludge' just from the updating and use of programs?

Stuff gets left around, but all it does is take up a little bit of hd space, which is almost free on the gb level. Used machines are always slower than freshly installed. You don't have anything on a fresh install yet. The best way to keep it running well is to not install garbage software. Pick some good apps for what you need to do, and stick with it. You don't need 6 CD burners, and 10 media players. You aren't likely to find some new amazing program that's any better than what you already have. Keep 20%+ free on your hd, and it should run forever without a reinstall. I've had Vista64 since Sept07, and it's still running great.

 

[Munky]

Best tune up utility is your brain. Every time you install something, do a "custom install" and make sure you deselect all crapware they often try to sneak install.

 

[DBissett]

I use Window Washer and CCleaner to delete garbage daily/weekly, Diskeeper to defrag in the background, and Registry Mechanic to clean up the registry every week or two. I'm using versions that I bought before subscriptions took over and maybe the function of each can be duplicated for free now. But they are all good programs and do their own jobs well. This suite seems to keep my machine running very well. I also picked up a utility once called Ultimate Troubleshooter, which I use periodically to keep too much crap from loading automatically and to shut off processes that can build up and bog down the machine. I like it and there may be a trial.

 

[slicksilver]

JV16 is very good for me

 

[renz20003]

You could always do a fresh install of windows, set it up the way you like it with your settings, apps, ect and make a clone image of your harddrive. When it starts acting slow you can restore the image and it will be running like a fresh install with all of your settings and apps ready to go!

 

[pyonir]

Isn't there a lot of leftover 'sludge' just from the updating and use of programs?

CCleaner.

http://www.piriform.com/CCLEANER
http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/features

• Removes temp files and recent file lists (MRUs) from many apps including Windows Media Player, eMule, Google Toolbar, Microsoft Office, Nero, Adobe Acrobat, WinRAR, WinAce, WinZip and many more...
• Recycle Bin, Recent Documents, Temporary files, Log files, Clipboard, DNS Cache, Error Reporting, Memory Dumps, Jump Lists.
• Advanced features to remove unused and old entries, including File Extensions, ActiveX Controls, ClassIDs, ProgIDs, Uninstallers, Shared DLLs, Fonts, Help Files, Application Paths, Icons, Invalid Shortcuts and more...

Looks like it has everything you want.

 

[smitbret]

I've been a frequenter of reinstalls- to a point I can't put up with any more. All the settings, customizations, and configurations I place on the OS and installed programs (as well as the installation of said programs) seem too immense to replicate outside of instances of new hardware being added, or a S.O.L. situation that occurs by accident.
I looked into imaging my install right at the point of finishing all the adjustments- but getting to there takes enough time and effort that it seemed like achieving that 'fresh' state without populating the system from using it it not doable.
Isn't there a lot of leftover 'sludge' just from the updating and use of programs?

That's kind of where I was. Now I:
1 - install the OS
2 - install the MB drivers
3 - get all of the updates (longest part of the process)
4 - install security software
5 - Tweak and customize
6 - Clone to 2nd HDD

Restoration takes about 8 minutes, vs. 2 or 3 hours to follow those steps in order. It's worth it. Trust me.

 

[FishAk]

You could always do a fresh install of windows, set it up the way you like it with your settings, apps, ect and make a clone image of your harddrive. When it starts acting slow you can restore the image and it will be running like a fresh install with all of your settings and apps ready to go!

This is the best advice I see here.

I'll add to by saying this >

Simply keep a log of changes you made since your last reset. The next time you reset, re-make the changes from your log, then save an updated image. This will keep all your settings and updates up to date on your most recent image, without all the crap from in between. Keep an older image for backup- just in case.

 

[mattkarlen7f]

Looking for something to automatically keep my systems in a healthy state, keep the cobwebs cleared out, optimize and maintain the registry, etc.

When it comes to keeping my computer in shape I think preventative is always better then the CURE approach. I therefore use VE (virtual environments) for the majority of my web browsing, software testing, etc - It keeps my computer safe from errors and viruses. I also backup my computer utilizing snapshot/imaging software, so if anything does go wrong, it only takes 1 to 5 minutes to revert back to a healthy system.

However if my approach is not for you, in the past I use'd pcmatic with reasonable success. It seems to still be rated well, as per: http://www.howtomakecomputerfaster.net/2010/04/review-pc-pitstop-pc-matic/

However, I'd suggest you go with my approach, or if you choose Tuneup software, and trialing PCMatic is not for you. Then search google for PC Tuneup software, and just trial the software for free, or read user reviews.

Goodluck.