Free Hard Drive Tune-up Tools - Comments Page 1

I have been using a software called Speedfan which also S.M.A.R.T tests the hard disks.

Wow, Bob, you've outdone yourself this time. I've been using some of this sort of "stuff" since, maybe, DOS. You've really updated and made it REALLY helpful. And, it's all in one, concise, post THANK YOU!

Thanks Bob for this run of info. I intend to use de Fraggle first

Tried to install Java on Windows 10 machine so I could use jDiskReport. Wouldn't install using either Firefox or Internet Explorer. Same error message (1618).

Very useful article, Bob. Been using Defraggler for years, but not defragged my SSD. So now I'm doing just that! Also use Recuva occasionally, and Paragon Partition Manager, which does the job brilliantly. Will be updating my maintenance software with some of your other suggestions. Keep up the good work!

Fun fact I have recently learned from Piriform, Recuva (and C-Cleaner) publisher : Recuva's aim is to recover accidentally deleted files, but it can also... securely erase them. Once you've scanned your disk for "erased" files which still happen to be there, you are offered the option to really wipe them off.

Piriform actually presents that as a more secure, complementary method to C-Cleaner : use C-Cleaner to wipe free space (or custom files and folders), and then, scan and wipe again with Recuva for more security.

I'm unable to say whether this is sound advice, or just something that might be true in theory.

Be aware that neither Recuva nor C-Cleaner are good tools to securely erase specific files and folders occasionally (as opposed to regularly wiping the same file or folder for privacy, which is what C-Cleaner is really made for) : while it can be done, it's not practical.

How do I know whether or not my computer is running Java? Sorry. This is probably basic stuff to know, but I don't. Thanks.

HD Tune doesn't appear to be free

Has any reader here ever measured the actual time savings from defragging?

I regularly use Eusing Cleaner to clean up the Registry, Driver Booster to keep my drivers up-to-date, and Patch my PC which does a ton of cleanup stuff.

The Windows 8 and 10 defrag doesn't defrag SSDs, it "Optimizes" them using a process called 'Trim.' Trim is safe on SSDs, defrag is (reportedly) not.

Dave P: HD Tune Pro has a free trial, while HD Tune is indeed free (I just downloaded it). Of course they make you look around for the free one...under Downloads.

Bob,

I took your suggestion on Macrium Reflect and used the disk imaging feature. It really looks like just what I need. I'll be dumping my old backup utility now.

Thanks for all you do!!

thank you I used the free hard drive cleaner and do like to read your publications thank you john

Very nice article, Bob.

I use Privazer once a month to keep my PC running in top shape. I used to use CCleaner until I found Privazer.

I also use Perfect Disk 12 for my defragging needs. It can Consolidate Free Space, Defrag Only, or arrange by SMARTPlacement for optimal disk performance.

I have never heard of Paragon Partition Manager Free. I have been using Partition Magic Pro v8.0. I know it's old but it serves my purposes.

@D.V.N. Sarma
I had used SpeedFan on my previous build. That program has been around for a long time.

Dear Bob,

For defragging I use for years "Diskeeper". It does it as soon you boot your computer in the back ground. It also use S.M.A.R.T.
To clean I use C-cleaner and AVG PC tune up.

Best regards,

Paulus Kruijer

Well....I've become so accustomed to trusting your recommendations that it was a big surprise when Privazer did not work. It went through all the scan portion and then began cleaning. Got 32% finished and then just sat there without moving any further for at least an hour. I finally stopped it and tried again. Same story. This is a Win 10 Dell laptop. So I'll just uninstall the app and try one of the others. Don't know that I even need it. I use CCleaner most of the time.....coupled with Free Registry Cleaner.
But keep up the fine work, Bob. I still like ya. Phil

I'm wary of Privazer. Opinions about it seem very contrasted. It's easy to bump into people who have horror stories to offer after having tried it. The first quality of such a program should be not to break things.

Like doctors : you can't promise to heal, but at the very least you must promise to do no harm. Of course, if it's just snake oil, it's no better...

Hi Bob, For disk cleanup I use Directory Report.
It is faster than WinDirStat
http://www.file-utilities.com

thanks bob great article an tons of good info and keep up the great work some of us beginners really appreciate it
thanks so much
al