I need a geek's opinion

[Marcella-FL]

I would like to clean up my pc and was wondering what software any of you geeks recommend? You know like registry edit and such.

[major.tom]

I don't recommend fooling around in the registry if you're not comfortable doing so, much less let any programs do it for you. Would I be correct in interpreting your desire to "clean up" as too many programs, or do you suspect you have malicious software on it and aren't sure how to get rid of it?

How long have you had your computer?

For viruses or trojans, you're best off backing up all your data, formatting your C drive and re-installing Windows. That's the best way to be sure you're rid of it.

When you're backing up, don't forget to save:
- your My Documents folder
- if you use Outlook, your mailbox (in c:\documents and settings\<userid>\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook\Outlook.pst, I think)
- your bookmarks/favourites (Firefox puts them in c:\documents and settings\<userid>\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\profiles\<some_random_name>\bookmarks.html; IE uses c:\documents and settings\<userid>\favorites\)

[Brown Sauce]

now't like a quick format

i agree with major tom about registry editing. i've used some "registry cleaners" and always have had to do a system restore. waste of time they are.

c:\documents and settings\<userid>\Local Settings\Application Data\Identities\{a large string blah blah blah}\Microsoft\Outlook Express

is where all your emails live if you use outlook express.

[Bob]

crap cleaner, it's good and free - www.filehippo.com

[Marcella-FL]

I just wanted to find a way to make sure my registry was up to date/ Not motivated enough to reformat /re-install ...

[major.tom]

You're registry doesn't really need "updating." It's used by the Operating System and changes over time as you add/remove software, change program settings, etc. If everything's running fine, no need to worry.