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Lee Koo
Community manager |
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Do PC system optimizers/fixer utilities cause more problems than they solve?
Dear CNET members,
Happy Friday! Each week, I receive dozens of questions from members, and some of you who e-mail us sound like you are in immediate and desperate need of tech advice. Unfortunately, this newsletter limits us to one question per week, but remember, you can find the help in the CNET forums, where hundreds of wonderful members and moderators are always willing lend a helping hand. So give the forums a try and post your questions there. And as a friendly reminder, when posting your questions in the forums or even when e-mailing me on a help topic, always explain your problem in detail so you can get the best and speediest solution. Now let's hit upon C.R.'s question: Do PC system optimizers/fixer utilities cause more problems than they solve?
Well C.R., after reading through the answers to your question in regard to the validity of your professional PC technician action of deleting your system optimizers/fixer utilities out of your system, stating that they cause more problems than they solve--it was mixed bag of answers from your fellow members--some agree that system optimizers do more harm than good, yet others swear by them. Here's my take on our members' responses:
· System optimizers are not anti-malware/spyware/adware utilities
· If you run an optimizer, run only one, as running multiple ones will cause conflicts
· If you are having major PC problems, system optimizers will most likely NOT solve your problem
· Some optimizers are overly aggressive and can do more harm than others
· If you will be using a system optimizer, do your homework and find a reputable one from a trusted source
· Do not trust optimizers that are advertised in pop-ups or banners ads online
· If you don't understand what a system optimizer is doing to your system, then it might be best not to use one
This list is just some of the advice I got out of reading your fellow members' responses, and I'd recommend reading everyone's to get the full picture. Now as far as the ethics of your technician removing your paid programs without asking you first? Well, you can bet there's a bit of a controversy brewing about that in the discussion thread. I thought it would be fun to take it to the polls this week, so get your vote in!
Thanks to all those who came through for C.R. We hope it helps. Have a great weekend, everyone!
Cheers!
-Lee
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Got suggestions? Send me an e-mail: messageboards@cnet.com |
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TOPIC OF THE WEEK |
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Q: Do PC system optimizers/fixer utilities cause more problems than they solve?
I am a 68-year-old ex-pat American living in England as the spouse of
a British citizen. As someone who has used a personal computer for 10
years but knows virtually nothing about technical matters, I am
vulnerable to all sorts of computer fix-it promotions and products,
among them The Ultimate Troubleshooter, System Mechanic, and Advanced
System Care.
I recently paid a professional to solve a problem I was
having with my Windows XP system, and when he had finished I
discovered he had intentionally removed all these products, saying
they were unnecessary and caused more problems than they solved. I
was frankly embarrassed that I had apparently been taken in by
advertising claims, and did not challenge his actions. (I have called
on this man's expertise before and respect his knowledge, since it is
obviously superior to my own. He has a number of small businesses in
the community as clients, but will also make home visits to people
like me who cannot transport their computers to another location for
repair.)
I don't like to think I'm being given bad advice, but I've spent a good
deal of money on the software I mentioned, believing the claims as
to their validity. I would appreciate your opinion regarding this situation.
-- Submitted by: C. R. Tate
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 A: Featured member solutions |
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Thanks to all who contributed! |
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Q: Getting rid of old computer; what should I do before proceeding?
Hello, everyone, I had an old Windows desktop computer given to me by my son when he got his Apple and now I have upgraded to a HP laptop. My question is how do I destroy all the personal information on the old desktop, including all bank details? I got rid of the keyboard, speakers, etc., but I still have the main box that holds all the info. I am scared to throw it out, and it has been sitting in the corner of the room for nearly three years and is an eyesore. What are my options--as to what do I need to do specifically? A detailed explanation and step-by-step procedures are needed. Please help me; I would be ever so grateful. Many thanks.
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If you have an answer to this question, click here and click the "reply" to submit your advice, suggestions, opinions, or tips.
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