5 PC Cleaning Tools to Speed Up Your Computer

Does it take forever for your PC applications to load? Are web pages loading slowly despite your super-fast broadband connection? Is your hard drive riddled with duplicate files and the detritus of old programs and settings? Maybe it’s time for your system to enjoy a bit of spring cleaning. Here are a few free utilities that specialize in "cleaning" your PC. Among other things, these applications can remove unnecessary files, track down duplicates, and help insure clean uninstalls—speeding up your system and cleaning out space used by junk and temporary files.

CCleaner

Let’s start with one of the more popular utilities. CCleaner is an application that works primarily with your PC’s registry (a repository of configuration information that other applications rely on). On a PC, the larger the registry gets, the more likely the computer slows down. So CCleaner removes anything unnecessary from the registry. On top of that, the utility also removes temporary files and clears your browser cookies. This means CCleaner is also a security tool of sorts, removing the information that can tell others what you’ve been doing with your PC.

WinUtilities

WinUtilities offers users a range of tools to clean up and optimize their file system. Registry backup and cleaning, program cache and temp file dumping, duplicate file search, a file shredder, and more are available in this free suite of programs. A customizable one-click maintenance function allows you to run a battery of utilities without having to open up each submenu. Scheduled tasks are among the features of the Pro version.

UPCleaner

Like CCleaner, UPCleaner is essential free pc cleaner completely dedicated to the thorough cleaning of the PC. The application, available in 5 languages, has seen resounding success since its launch and has steadily improved with each new version. Those who are looking for a suitable tool to cleaner PC with one-click won’t be disappointed. It’s easy-to-use and simple to install.
It provides you smart optimization schemes and speeds up your computer. UPCleaner can clear memory to keep your computer at peak performance on real-time, cleaning your RAM and enhancing the performance of your system.

Revo Uninstaller

Revo Uninstaller is an excellent free utility that augments Windows' own uninstall system by tracking downfiles and settings left behind during an uninstall. Unfortunately, the current free version is severely limited by the lack of 64bit compatibility, a major downside in an otherwise excellent free tool. The paid version unlocks loads of extra features such as system monitoring during install and the ability to clean up botched installations.

Should I Remove It?

Sick of bloatware, unnecessary toolbars, and other extraneous crap slowing your system down? Perhaps an application like 'Should I Remove It?' might be helpful. Should I Remove It? It performs a quick scan of your installed software, compares with its servers, and then displays the software in order, with starred ratings and color-coded bars that recommend keeping or replacing the software. You can click on the entries for more information, which will link to Should I Remove It?'s page, with a short description and known behaviors. A useful tool for those looking to clear up cluttered systems.