Slow Computer

[bradygirl_12]

Hi, all!

My computer is running slow and I'd like to clean it up. Are there any PC clean-up programs out there that you recommend? I'd prefer free if they're to be trusted, that is. The problem is so many malware programs pretend to be the real thing, you know?

I have updated Avast Anti-Virus software but I'm sure it doesn't hurt to see if there's adware or other stuff on my PC and I'd need a way to clean it out. Thanks!

Comments

[crooked-halo.livejournal.com]

I use AVG anti-virus, which is also free. And I've used Adaware in the past. It was free as of the last time I used it and helped a lot.

Also, have you cleared your browser cache lately? Sometimes that will bog down your computer too.

[bradygirl_12]

Does Adaware detect malware and all that stuff? Do you have to download it and then it's easy to use?

I could try the browser cache. I haven't done it in so long I forget how. :)

[crooked-halo.livejournal.com]

Adaware detects tracking software and that sort of thing. I don't think it would protect specifically against malware. It is downloadable and very easy to use though.

And clearing the cache should be under tools and then options. What browser do you use? I should be able to give you better directions if I know whether you use IE or Firefox :)

[bradygirl_12]

I use IE. :)

[crooked-halo.livejournal.com]

Okay, then it would be under safety or security, and on the version of IE that's loaded on my computer, it gives you the option right on that drop down menu.

And I do highly recommend downloading and switching to firefox because I've had a lot less issues with malware since switching to firefox. It seems to be more secure, and there are a lot of great free add-ons out there that provide extra protection.

One of the add-ons I especially love is ad-blocker. So instead of ads on websites, I just see a blank portion of the site where the ad used to be. That has been fantastic for me :)

[bradygirl_12]

Thanks!

Is Firefox similar to IE or very different? *curious*

[crooked-halo.livejournal.com]

You're welcome. I adore my Firefox. *pets* We really have had less problems since we started using that regularly and I just love the add-ons.

It is pretty similar to IE-just slightly different, but I would say it's about as different to IE as the differences in going from one version of IE to another, if that makes sense? Basically, some of the drop-down menus are different and it looks slightly different, but it's user-friendly enough that it will take maybe a day or two to get used to the differences.

[bradygirl_12]

Thanks for the info! :)

[wabbitseason.livejournal.com]

Two free programs I've used and liked:
CCleaner which cleans up a lot of stuff on your computer, both applications and browsers and etc

I use the free version of Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware.

[bradygirl_12]

Thanks, Wabbit! :)

My PC needs some lovin' care! :)

[dandello.livejournal.com]

try http://www.iobit.com/advancedwindowscareper.html
it also fixes your registry.

[bradygirl_12]

Thank you! :)

[skund.livejournal.com]

You should be able to make to do most of it without a PC cleaner (which are mostly malware or a waste of money).

Run your malware and virus checkers. Delete any of any files that have been 'locked'.

Remove any programmes you no longer need using Control Panel > Add/Remove Programmes

Then Start > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Clean Up

The maybe use a registry fixer. (I use CCleaner too - it does the same as Disk Clean Up, but with a few added registry fixes).

Then Start > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmenter

That covers pretty much everything a 'cleaner' programme does, but keeps you in control of your own computer and doesn't run the risk of downloading malware or ads or useless toolbars.

Although the best way, for Windows installations over a year old, is to format and reinstall. Windows is broken and bulky and slows itself down with time. :/

Umm... I hope that helps!

[bradygirl_12]

Thank you! Step-by-step directions are necessary for me. :)

I may have some questions to ask, but I'm quickly checking in before I go off-line 'til later today.

[skund.livejournal.com]

No prob! I'm always happy to help. :)

[dinahqueen.livejournal.com]

For Spyware/Malware I use S&D Spybot, which has served me well in the past.

Also, I'd think about switching from Avast! to AVG. I had Avast and when I went to AVG it found about 10+ infections.

[bradygirl_12]

Thanks! Definitely putting this on the list of suggestions. :)

[dandello.livejournal.com]

Another thing - clean out and defrag your harddrive. A fragmented HD can be very slow.

[bradygirl_12]

I'll do that!

[mistressmarilyn.livejournal.com]

Malwarebytes. We use it at work and at home.

[bradygirl_12]

Thank you, Mistress! I'd read about that program and it sounded good, but it's also good to get a rec from someone who's used it.

[cpfan.livejournal.com]

Try Superantispyware, this thing is awesome. There is a free version on the official website and absolutely no need to buy the professional version.

[bradygirl_12]

Thank you! Free is always the way to go! ;)

[bradygirl_12]

CCleaner sounds like a winner! :)

LOL! True about Linus. :)