Note that Microsoft's operating system has many built-in tools for improving your PC's performance, though they're scattered throughout the OS (unlike the third-party tune-up utilities mentioned here). We tested all the tune-up utilities in this story on a junked-up Windows 10 test bed.

For example, Iolo System Mechanic cleans gunked-up PCs with its real-time system monitoring Ashampoo offers a file-deletion tool and backup app and AVG offers a driver updater.

Some tune-up utilities perform just those basic functions, while more elaborate ones add numerous features that improve your computer in interesting ways. It performs several functions, including defragmenting your PC's hard drive, repairing the incredibly problematic Windows Registry, and freeing up disk space by deleting useless and duplicate files. What Is a Tune-Up Utility?Ī PC tune-up utility is an application that digs deep into your computer and fixes trouble areas. Instead, you can get often that fresh-out-the-box performance for tens of dollars-instead hundreds or even thousands-thanks to a relatively inexpensive tool: the PC tune-up utility. But that's a drastic solution, and one that's frequently unnecessary. When our machines become so impaired through use and neglect that we can no longer use Microsoft Word or play PC games with the same speed and efficiency to which we have become accustomed, we often ponder buying new computers.

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