ccleaner

Though we have several machines here at Download.com running Windows Vista for testing purposes, I have to admit that I haven't yet made the switch at my workspace. Maybe it's because with Windows XP, I like the way things are set up; I like the look; and I can rest assured that all my favorite downloads are going to work without fail. I'm not saying Vista won't support my programs--and I'm sure I'll make the switch at some point--but for now I'm sticking with XP.

Even though XP is my choice for now, as a major-league software nerd, I still try to find ways to improve upon a good thing. Rather than leaving well-enough alone, I continually search CNET Downloads to see what programs I can find to make my OS run even more smoothly. A few downloads I've come across trim down existing applications, clean out system flaws, and keep the whole XP operating system running at optimal speed.… Read more

If there's one thing that the Black Hat 2007 conference in Las Vegas taught CNET Senior Editor Robert Vamosi, it's that criminals hackers, forgers, and malware chefs are getting more creative in their villainy, not less.

While stocking up on quality security software is an advisable method for keeping your distance from boogie-man code, the antivirus and removal applications are a lot more effective when used correctly. Some programs, such as Hijack This and CCleaner, benefit from deeper instruction; that's where CNET Download.com's security center steps in. Here you'll find guides for getting started … Read more

I admit I'm a digital pack rat. I have a directory of images on my local drive devoted to LOLcats. I have gigabytes of FLAC files from live concert recordings and MP3 files from music sites such as CNET Download.com Music.

I'm good at regularly backing up my information to DVD and moving some files permanently to backups, but my 160GB hard drive is usually pushing full capacity. To keep my machine running at a speed I like (and deserve!), I have to perform regular maintenance. While there are lots of ways to optimize your hard drive, my basic method requires only three steps.… Read more

Like anyone who spends a lot of time in front of his computer screen, Power Downloader knows that over time, computers can start to get sluggish. There are a variety of reasons for this phenomenon, including the more dangerous issues of spyware and viruses. However, even the most protected computers suffer slowdown from lack of regular system maintenance. Power knows regular tune-ups are crucial to keeping his system in tip-top shape, so in addition to checking for spyware and viruses and regularly defragging his hard drive, he uses the popular optimizing software CCleaner.

Regular Internet surfing, even on only the … Read more

No one likes a slow computer, especially when a PC feels sluggish performing regular activities such as Web surfing, opening programs, or even starting up. If your system seems as if it's swimming through molasses, don't buy a new computer just yet.

The main reason for overall system sluggishness is spyware. It's that simple. You can find 10 good spyware solutions here. The second-biggest culprit is a lack of routine maintenance. Unused programs, old cache and temp files, and extraneous Registry entries will clog your system over time. Spring is finally kicking into high gear, and it'… Read more