You've probably seen the ads: a free program that promises to “clean,” “speed up,” or “optimize” your computer. Most of them don't deliver, and some make things worse.
Why they cause problems:
- Some bundle adware or other unwanted software with the installer.
- Some invent problems to scare you into paying. If a program tells you it found 4,732 problems, that number is a sales pitch, not a diagnosis.
- A few change settings or remove files you didn't want touched.
- “Registry cleaners” and “driver updaters” promise a lot, but Windows already handles most of what they claim to do, and the risk of breaking something is higher than the benefit.
What actually helps, using tools already on your computer:
- Check your startup list. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager, choose Startup apps in the left-hand menu (on Windows 10 it's the Startup tab), and disable programs you don't need running the moment you turn the computer on.
- Free up drive space. In Windows Settings, open System, then Storage, to see what's taking up room and clear temporary files.
- Let Windows Update do its job. It installs fixes and most driver updates for you. Restart when it asks.
- Remove what you don't use. In Settings, open Apps and uninstall programs you no longer need.
Using a Mac? The same caution applies to Mac “cleaner” and “optimizer” apps, and macOS already includes the tools you need. In System Settings, open General, then Login Items to manage what starts up, Storage to see what's using space, and Software Update to install fixes. To remove an app you no longer use, open your Applications folder and drag it to the Trash.
Already installed one? Uninstall it from Settings, then Apps, and check your browser for extensions you don't recognize. If you're still seeing pop-ups or your homepage keeps changing, that can point to something more than a bad cleaner. Is It a Virus or Just a Slow Computer? → Virus and malware removal is handled through our onsite service →
What a real tune-up involves: a proper tune-up looks at what's actually slowing your computer down, such as startup clutter, unnecessary background programs, low drive space, and signs of other problems. That takes a real look at your specific machine, not a one-click button. For more on the usual causes, see Why Is My Computer Running Slow? →
On Track Computers offers remote tune-up sessions, so we can do exactly that from wherever you are. Book a remote tune-up — $35 for the first 30 minutes →