Every computer needs a tune-up now and then. Unfortunately computer viruses often disguise themselves as cleaning programs and other utilities. You think you’re downloading a legitimate program, but you end up infecting your computer instead.
Here are some of my favorite bona fide utilities to help you keep your computer in top condition. I’ve included the full address for each product as a reminder that links, even on a benevolent site like this one, can be hijacked by hackers in order to lead you to malware-infected sites. Always visit the manufacturer’s site or app store directly to download programs, and remember that you use these utilities at your own risk.
Also make sure you are running a reliable antivirus program, that you have current updates for your system installed, and that you have a recent backup. See each utility’s site for more information and support.
Useful Utilities For Windows
- CCleaner from Piriform
https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download
This program offers an easy way to clean out temporary files and other cached data. It also has options for optimizing your computer. - Malwarebytes
https://www.malwarebytes.com/
One of the top products for virus and malware removal. Your regular antivirus program offers routine protection, but Malwarebytes can help you remove the sneakies that manage to infiltrate those defenses. - Personal Software Inspector from Flexera Software (formerly Secunia)
http://www.flexerasoftware.com/enterprise/products/software-vulnerability-management/personal-software-inspector/
If you’ve been looking for a convenient way to make sure all of your Windows programs are up to date, look no further. PSI scans your system and lets you know which programs need updates or are obsolete. No more wondering if you have the latest versions!
Useful Utilities For Mac
- El Capitan Cache Cleaner from Northern Softworks
http://www.northernsoftworks.com/elcapitancachecleaner.html
This little gem lets Mac users clear out caches and other miscellaneous junk. You can also use it to repair permissions, which can help to mitigate problems, as well as run other optimization routines. Despite the name it also works with previous versions of Mac OS. - Apple Diagnostics (Apple Hardware Test) from Apple
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT202731
This hardware testing program is built into your Mac. Restart your Mac, then hold down the D key until the Apple Diagnostics window appears. - Disk Utility from Apple
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201639
This is another built-in tool that helps you diagnose and repair hard drive problems. You’ll find it in the Utilities folder in the Applications folder on your Macintosh HD.
Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users 