RE: Registry Optimizer Software - Worth it?

[Peterlock]

Hi Folks, :wave

After my last computer disaster I'm a little gun shy about adding more utility programs to what I already have.

My question is..how important is a registry cleaner and Optimizer?

I looked at a program called Registry mechanic, which was very well rated by CNet...reading though the user reviews, people love it...a few folks mention that if you're not a "computer expert" to steer clear of these types of programs.

I used the free system scan and it found 155 errors..I just clicked repair, the rest was automatic and frankly I have no idea what was broken and what the repair consisted of.

Are these programs valuable - or best to be avoided. I'm not an expert but not a novice.

Any thoughts?

Peter ha

[Elleth Faewen]

I've never used one myself. The registry is so important, I just don't trust the automated programs to not break things. I have gone through and cleaned things myself manually. I think they're a great idea, though, I just wouldn't use it.

[StephieSue]

I use Registry Mechanic religiously. But I also go in from time to time by hand and do some cleaning up, because sometimes that's easier for me. Not that I don't trust RM. I'm just a geek.

RM, though, is fine. And I wouldn't worry about what the people on the reviews say about needing to be a computer expert. They may have zero knowledge of anything computers! Just run RM every few weeks or so.