I’ve seen a few lists of recommended programs around, so I figured I would give a list of programs I like. All but one of them are free. I’m sure there is a similar program that is free somewhere.

I will start with Tune Up Utilities. This is a great program to keep your system running smoothly. Not only does it allow you to customize your windows interface, it also repairs your computer. This program contains a Registry Cleaner, Disc Doctor, which is basically the same as the “CHKDSK” command, a Memory Optimizer, a Registry Defrag, System Optimization, which allows you to optimize the way your system runs as well as surfing the web. Rather then doing each task one at a time they developed “1 – Click Maintenance”, which runs all the needed tests fairly quickly. For any application you are having trouble getting rid of, it has a Uninstaller that usually wipes it out with no problem. There is a free 30 day trial, so I recommend giving it a shot. The program cost around $40 to keep.

On to Ccleaner. This will clean up cookies, and temporary files left behind by surfing the internet. A very fast scanning process, (usually no less then a few seconds) will erase temporary files, history, cookies, and clean up the hard drive. This program is completley free, and updated frequently.

Spyware is a problem for just about every Windows user. Spybot Search and Destroy is a free anti-spyware program that does a great job at removing spyware. Updated almost everyday this program is capable of scanning for over 100,000 spyware in about a half an hour to 45 minutes. This also has an immunization application that blocks spyware from being downloaded by your browsers.

Cant afford Microsoft Office? Take a look at Open Office. It is an open source suite of applications that are capable of reading Office files so you can swap the files back and forth. For example, if you are working on something on Microsoft Office at a work or school, you can send it home and continue working on Open Office. This is great for the college student who can’t afford Microsoft Office.

I have used many other freeware applications, so any questions feel free to comment or message, and I will help you to the best of my ability.

Tune Up link.

Ccleaner Link.

Spybot Search and Destroy link.

Open Office link.