Computer Speed Up / Tune Up

[bill of oz]

what do you guys do to make sure a computer is running at its best? as fast as it can be?

i normally do a hard disk cleanup using something like ccleaner and registry cleanup, then do virus/malware scans, then make sure all unnessessary programs are disabled upon computer startup,

is there anything else you guys can recommend? such as settings, or programs to run from the internet or hirens cd?

 

[Darren]

Easiest and best way is to just a wipe and reinstall of the OS.

However that's not typically ideal. Basically I'd do what you stated. Go through and uninstall absolutely everything that isn't used. If you're unsure of what something does, Google it before you remove it. Once you've uninstalled everything follow with a thorough scan with an Anti Virus followed by MalwareBytes. Finally I'd run CCleaner and then following with a Registry Clean using CCleaner (MAKE A BACKUP IF YOU DO THIS). Follow it all up with a defrag assuming it's not an SSD and is a regular HDD.

 

[aldan]

you can also go into services and change the way some start or in some cases disable them entirely.black viper has a good,easy to follow guide for doing this.
http://www.blackviper.com/service-c...dows-7-service-pack-1-service-configurations/

 

[bill of oz]

thanks guys

 

[Agent Smith]

System Ninja will delete crap Ccleaner doesn't.

 

[johnb35]

System Ninja will delete crap Ccleaner doesn't.

So will TFC (Temp File Cleaner).

 

[bbudesa]

My question is - how does one know what IS or ISN'T necessary? When I look at information about some of these files, they're all made to sound legitimate and needed in order for the machine to operate successfully, so I hesitate to do anything.

Disable vs uninstall. The latter removes the program altogether, correct, while disabling only removes it from the startup list, and is only opened when you start it?

I would think only security (Avast, etc) and OS programs would be necessary, so disable (not uninstall) everything else, right? Uninstall programs you absolutely don't use, or ever will.

 

[Agent Smith]

For disabling startup programs I use Startup CPL which is old, but good. It will install to the control panel unless you use the stand along version. I also use Autoruns.

If you uninstall programs I would use Revo Uninstaller to make sure it cleans up all the left overs. Chose the advanced setting when you click on a program to remove.