Advanced System Care from IOBit
Update: Since the revelations in November 2009 that IOBit had stolen the database and intellectual property from Malwarebytes as well as also believed to be using the databases from other security vendors, Free PC Security can no longer support nor advocate the use of this or other programs from IOBit.
Users who download this or other IOBit programs do so at their own risk.
Advanced System Care from IOBit is a one-stop solution to remove junk files and improve your computers performance with one-click maintenance.
Previously, it was known as Advanced Windows Care which I covered in March 2008 with Version 2.7, now it is Version 3.3.4 which has quite a few additions to its interface. This is a free program that also offers a paid upgraded version.
It's a simple to use program which can be left on the default settings for most users, although more experienced users will want to tweak some of the settings.
It has a very simple user interface which is available in white or black and users can alter the transparency of the user interface. It packs a lot in to a small program - maybe too much - and for most users it will be enough to simply click the 'care' button and let it run.
I'm not a fan of tools that clean the registry, so use this with caution and rollback the settings within the program should you experience any problems.
The Maintain Windows button focuses on four areas of computer maintenance starting with Spyware Removal, Registry Fix, Privacy Sweep and Junk Files cleaner.
Users can click on the results to see what will be removed and untick any that they don't want removed. The program does create a complete backup which users can restore should they experience any problems after running the tools.
The Diagnose System button provides system optimization tools, detects spyware, defragments your disk, and scans for hijacked Windows settings.
The Utilities section has several tools for other areas of optimization and diagnostic tests, including ChkDsk, a Disk Cleaner which will remove any unnecessary files with the option to Remove to the Recycle Bin, Delete permanently or Backup and delete.
Internet Booster can help to optimize your internet connection and also FireFox if using it.
Smart RAM, when running, can free up memory when resources are low.
The Shortcut Fixer will remove invalid or missing shortcuts, again, users can uncheck boxes if desired.
The Registry Defrag has a popup asking users to disable their antivirus, which if connected to the internet is not a good idea, but it will still run with antivirus enabled.
The Security section allows users to backup their drivers, IE Security Assistant gives greater control of what is loaded with internet Explorer, System Backup creates a Restore Point which you can also carry out through Windows, System File Checker validates the Windows System Files but will only repair any missing or corrupt files if users have the installation disk.
Admin Tools offers another host of small applications which are covered in the video.
Advanced SystemCare Free is a simple way to maintain your system's speed and clear out junk files, but you will need to remember to run it regularly scheduled scans are only available in the Pro version.
The easiest way to run the program is to click on 'Maintain Windows' and then click the 'Care' button and let it run.
Please bear in mind that each computer is configured differently and what works on one may not work on another.
There is NO 'one-size fits all', it is very much trial and error to find what works for YOU and there are many other free programs that have NOT stolen databases from other vendors.
Download Advanced System Care here
System Requirements:
Windows 2000, XP, Vista and Windows7 (32bit and 64bit)
Download size: 7.52MB
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Free PC Security, Advanced System Care, IOBit, Windows Maintenance, Optimization Tools
Reader Comments
I'm confused. In the first paragraph you say that you can no longer support or advocate 10Bit programs like ASC.
The you spend the next seventeen paragraphs extoling its virtues.
So is it crap or not?
BigJoeRice - At the original time of writing it appeared to be a very good program. Events late last year proved that their methods were less than honest and the program was put together using definitions and intellectual property belonging to other vendors without the vendors knowledge or permission.
The original article was written in July 2009 and a disclaimer was added in November 2009 when events started to unfold.
What they had done was to take several programs from other vendors and repackage it as their own work, which it was not.
It is not a program I use as there are better alternatives that are free and made available by reputable companies.
Regards
Colin