One of the leading causes of system slowdowns and crashes: a dirty Registry. Here's some utilities that scan this system database, find errant entries, and let you get rid of them.I try out tons of new, exciting, and sometimes even useful programs on my PC at work. But after installing and uninstalling all of those apps, it doesn't take long for my Windows Registry to become a complete mess. That causes errors, system sluggishness, and, sometimes, crashes. Not all programs uninstall as easily as they install, and they often leave behind defunct Registry entries to stagnate in my system.
To keep my Registry clean, lean, and mean, I regularly scan it using software designed to root out the garbage left behind by uninstalled programs. These apps check my Registry for unassociated and rogue entries. Some give me a description of what specific entries were once used for. I can then make an informed decision about whether to get rid of those entries. Here are my three favourites for regular Registry maintenance.
Registry Medic does a comprehensive scan of Registry entries, then looks for the files and programs those entries are associated with. If it can't find a parent, it gives you plenty of details on that entry. Unfortunately, the shareware version lets you fix only five entries at a time. However, it might be worth US$19.95 for the extra details you get. (Shareware/Windows)
Registry Mechanic lets you use a Windows Explorer-like interface to scan for Registry problems. Registry Mechanic gives you a list of possible culprits that you can selectively delete. You can also make a backup of your whole Registry, making it safer to delete problem entries. I like the second option, because I can always bring back the whole set if something stops working correctly. (Shareware/Windows)
RegSupreme, from the creator of jv16 PowerTools, shows you a list of your current Registry items in easy-to-understand terms and lets you delete all the outdated items quickly. It's as simple as identifying old programs, checking the boxes, and clicking the Remove button. This one offers the backup feature, too, for safe deletion of Registry orphans. (Shareware/Windows)
What do you think? How do you keep your Registry clean? What are your favourite Windows utilities? TalkBack to us below!
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You forgot System Mechanic 4.0, Tune-Up Utilities and Ace Utilities which also do a great job at cleaning out left behind registry keys.