Registry Repair & Optimizer Software

Buyer's guide - what to look for in Registry Repair & Optimizer software

We all know that new computers are always fast and responsive. Then, gradually, they slow down as we add more programs and processes. Repeated installs and uninstalls take their toll, until eventually the most basic of tasks takes minutes to complete.

At this chronic stage we have three choices; buy a new machine, reinstall our operating system or clean up the problem.

By far the cheapest solution is to clean up the system - starting with the registry. Your system registry is a the nerve center of your computer?s software setup. Cleaning and optimizing it can speed up your machine by up to 70%.

Unless you're an expert, manually editing your registry can easily result in total failure of your operating system. Luckily there are a range of products that will scan and repair your registry at the click of a button. Regularly optimizing your registry every few months will result in a dramatically improved user experience.

• Features - Although they sound highly technical, try to look for the following as a minimum. In our reviews we have flagged up products that DO NOT hit this minimum standard:
  Correction or deletion of invalid pathways, empty registry keys, traces of uninstalled software, orphan references, corrupt files, invalid fonts, invalid file types, CLSID, DLLs, sound, help files, shell extensions, AppEvents and class keys
  
  More advanced software may also clear cached files and histories and remove spyware, although if you have a good anti-spyware and online privacy program you may not need these.


• Error protection - Good registry repair programs can constantly monitor your registry settings and optimize on the fly. They should also make backups to allow rollback easily.


• Help and support - As with all software, sometimes you will require assistance. Whether it's a lost software key or a complete PC failure you should look for a responsive vendor. Comprehensive online help files or an active user forum are a must. Telephone or live-chat support are also recommended.

Almost all registry repair programs allow you to download and scan your system for free before you are required to pay for a full copy to repair the errors. We recommend downloading two of the best titles to test the look and feel of the product as well as the detection rate before making a purchase.