Degunking Windows, Second Edition is a great companion book for those computer users who are beginners or are entering the intermediate level. This book is a very quick and easy read, providing the details of how to maintain a computer that is free from the daily gunk that accumulates with use.
It discusses how to keep your files organized for ease of use, how to clean up the clutter associated with internet surfing, and the often unknown clutter from installing and deleting programs in Windows that build up over time. In addition to how to keep your Windows computer clean and free from gunk, it discusses the need for firewalls, antivirus, and anti-spyware that have become the modern-day scourge of web surfing. In combination, the safe practices of better securing your computer system and the benefit of keeping it free of gunk help speed up your system and offer a greatly reduced risk of infection from spyware, viruses, Trojans, hackers and script kiddies.
However, Degunking Windows attempted to discuss some things such as editing the Windows registry in a manner that was for the beginner, yet failed to go into any detail on the structure of registry keys or their function. Instead, it offered a cursory discussion into one of the most complex aspects of the Windows operating system, then suggested the use of third party software as a means of cleaning it. For the beginner or slightly advanced user, I personally don’t suggest even mentioning the editing of the registry due to the consequences that a simple mistake can have.
This book also suggests the use of third party software to aid in cleaning and degunking Windows, which for many beginners is the best route to go. However some of the software they mention are memory resident programs that will only add to the clutter of the Windows, resulting in a counter-productive outcome.
Article comments
1 - Aaman
Does the book talk about deep cleaners like the ones that overwrite the data space continuously for deleted files, as well as the deep deletes. I've found that's effective in cleaning up a system. Also, people need to check for spy ware and newer stuff like root kits regularly.
2 - preston parkhurst
This book does not specifically address forensic level file deletion, but it does make mention of the use of Tweak UI and System Mechanic third party utilities.
I test a great deal of utility software and as far as an overall third party program that does a pretty good job of everything, System Mechanic pro is worth spending a few bucks on. It does have features for overwriting deleted files past government level standards (such as the NSA)
As far as security, I am currently testing the F-Secure client suite and it is proving to be much less resource dependent than previous versions and includes anti-spyw*re and firewall features that are very flexible. However it will not work with Microsofts Beta Anti-spyw*re, which is one of the best things Microsoft has put out in recent memory.