Removing unnecessary things from your own PC is often very helpful in improving its overall performance. In the following paragraphs, you’ll see several types of these unexpected things that need to be recognized before taking any action. In a nutshell, this article is about tips for finding them.
In general, there are two types of such items: those that are available in the form of data files and those that are classified as executable programs. Unwanted software can be fully configured in the normal way using some kind of installer or simply stored in a common folder.
Some varieties of unexpected things that are usually found on a personal computer are cache files, temporary Internet files, unwanted installed programs, and programs that come with harmful code like spyware or trojans. There are programs that need to be clicked to work, while others can run on autopilot when triggered by a particular activity.
To remove unwanted files, simply recognize them, locate and then delete them, then empty the trash. Having said that, keep in mind that in the event that security is the primary concern, deleting files directly as discussed above may not be able to remove all traces adequately.
As you know, Windows uses cache files to improve the execution of repetitive processes. Although cache files are not dangerous, after a while they can get bigger and bigger and ultimately make a difference to your computer’s performance.
Much like cache files, Windows uses temporary files to provide better functionality of various installed applications. For example, there are actually files that come with the .tmp extension that will be generated whenever programs like Microsoft Word are used.
By using web browsers like Internet Explorer, temporary files will also be generated. Also, remember that Windows also creates temporary files during software installation, including various operations. These types of files are actually created for the purpose of recovery in case something unexpected happens.
If you want to remove an application installed using Windows Installer, simply use the Add/Remove Programs utility provided. Several programs also come with their own uninstaller. In these cases, it is recommended to use the function as the first option. In some cases, the uninstaller included in the program or the built-in Add/Remove Programs utility cannot perform its primary function. Under such conditions, alternative removal methods can be used.
Spyware or virus removal is known as the most confusing activity as compared to all the methods discussed above. Actually, the first problem is to determine if that problem really exists or not. Many indicators related to malware infection are: unreliable performance of your system, intrusive pop-ups, and browser hijacking.
Ultimately, it is always a sensible practice to perform a thorough scan for harmful programs on a regular basis and also perform other routine maintenance such as disk cleanup. One should also consider using utilities like CCleaner, antispyware and, not to be neglected, reliable spam blocking software.