Which Registry Cleaner?

[TVC15]

I have an Athlon computer with Windows XP Pro and I realize I need to buy a serious registry cleaner. But which one? Can you reccommend one that is cheap and simple. The freebies ain't doin it. Thanks.

 

[linney]

Using Registry Cleaners in my experience are a prelude to doing a format and clean install. With that in mind, one of the best around (not free, but has a trial) is JV16 Power Tools from

http://www.macecraft.com

As well as backing up your valuable data, this program is handy to know about.
Registry Backup and Restore for Windows NT/2000/2003/XP

http://www.larshederer.homepage.t-online.de/erunt/

Testing 10 Windows 'Registry Cleaning' Software Packs

http://www.informationweek.com/news/windows/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=171203805

 

[Sympology]

CC Cleaner. Does registry and many other files. never had a prblem and have run it hundreds of times.

Totally free

Only the truly stupid believe they know everything.
Stu.. 2004

 

[cdogg]

Although it didn't get the highest marks in linney's 2005 article link, I've always used Registry Mechanic with a lot of success. There have been several new versions since the test in that article.

~cdogg
"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Einstein
[tab][navy]For posting policies, click [/navy]here.

 

[2ffat]

Note that Langa's list is a bit dated. I switched from EasyCleaner to CCleaner a couple of years ago and really like it. You can download it from places like ZDNet, CNet, or your favorite download site.


James P. Cottingham
-----------------------------------------
^{I'm number 1,229!
I'm number 1,229!}

 

[NARSBARS]

CCleaner. All the rest have always led to a reformat if I used them a few time. CCleaner has lasted through several PCs and multiple uses with no problems. Of course you do have to take a hand and don't just take all the recommendations for gospel.

NARSBARS

 

[linney]

It is quite hard to find any really unbiased reports about Registry Cleaners on the "Net", that is why I like the Fred Langa review even though it is a bit dated. I did see this blog from 2005, with added comments going up to 2007 before the thread closed.

Why I don’t use registry cleaners (by Ed Bott)

http://www.edbott.com/weblog/archives/000643.html

Personally, I still see Registry Cleaners as a tool of last resort.

 

[aich69]

Would agree with linney on the 'tool of last resort' comment but also agree with others that if you are going to use one then CCleaner

http://www.ccleaner.com

is the one to use as it does give you the opportunity to backup your registry before you delete all the obsolete entries it has found during scanning. I have used it numerous occasions without problem.

That said... if it's that clogged a clean install might be the way to go if you have the license key etc.

I used to have a handle on life... but it broke. Cpt. Red Bull

 

[mscallisto]

Best Method:
If its convenient to do a clean reinstall then do it.

If not back up anything you don't want to loose first.

The registry is complex and often gets convoluted over time to say the least and no registry cleaner knows all the answers.

Back up your registry and try some of the above suggestions. If they don't help or they further corrupt your system then reinstall.

good luck

sam