The Computer Guy's SOFTWARE PICKS

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Over the years I've run across some really great software to help maintain PCs and keep them running in tip-top shape. Listed below are some of the best ones available for use on home computers. As is always the case with any freeware I have listed, most of the apps  have some limitations compared to their retail version counterparts, but everything listed here is worthy of your consideration whether it's FREE or not. The Free software is labeled as such, and most of the other listings have free trial periods so you can evaluate them risk free. Check 'em out!

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CCleaner - (freeware) A great free utility to help keep your PC running at peak performance. This application is much more robust than Windows built-in disk cleanup utility.

Spybot Search and Destroy - (freeware) A must-have for any PC. In today's internet connected world, it's an absolute necessity to have a good antispyware program. This is one of the best!

Ad-Aware - (freeware) Another great antispyware/anti-adware app. Use this one in conjunction with other antispyware software to get a "second opinion".

AVG Antivirus Free Edition - (freeware and retail versions available) Although I highly recommend a full-featured antivirus suite, any protection is better than none at all. AVG free version is the "hands-down" winner in the free antivirus category! 

EZBack-It-Up - (freeware) Backing up your data doesn't get any easier than this. A very well conceived and written basic backup utility. One of my all-time favorites!

System Information for Windows (SIW) - (freeware) Ever want to "peek under the hood" of your computer? SIW will give you all of the information about your PC that you could ever want to know (and then some).

Auslogics Disk Defragmenter - (freeware) Not as good as some commercial defraggers, but MUCH BETTER than Windows built-in utility. For the price (FREE), you can't beat this one.

 Registry First Aid - (trialware) This is the ONLY registry cleaner that I endorse. Registry First Aid is easy and safe to use. An optimized registry is one of the best ways to avoid common windows stability problems. Definitely give this one a try! You'll be glad you did.