Windows Bloatware Removal Tools and Techniques

Most new desktop and notebook PCs come with annoying preinstalled toolbars, applications and utilities. They often distract users with unnecessary notifications. Some also slow down computers, reduce privacy, create security risks and waste hard disk space. “Bloatware” has become a popular nickname for these hard-to-remove programs. As a Tripwire security analyst recently said, “Bloatware needs to stop.” Fortunately, you can use several different techniques to banish it.

• Browser add-ons
• Security trialware
• Media applications
• Useless adware

Microsoft has introduced a new anti-bloatware utility for Windows 10. Although some people find it ironic that a company responsible for so much inefficient software would offer such a tool, it proves quite effective. The program works by downloading a standard edition of the operating system and using it to replace the existing copy.

As a result, all manufacturer-supplied software completely disappears from the machine. No registry entries, useless files or broken links stay behind. Microsoft introduced this tool during May and added it to the upcoming Windows 10 Anniversary Update. The only major downside is that you might need to reinstall some drivers after using it. You’ll also need to back up and restore any files you’ve already saved.

Reinstallation

If you don’t use Windows 10, you can still reinstall the OS with a Microsoft installation disc. Don’t use a disc supplied by the PC manufacturer; it probably contains the same bloatware that was on the computer when you bought it. Many machines have license stickers you can refer to when the setup program asks for a key.

Direct Removal

Another option is to remove bloatware applications individually. You may use the Windows uninstall function to accomplish this. However, it probably won’t fully eliminate unwanted files and registry entries. Consider using a sophisticated third-party tool, such as Revo or Ashampoo Uninstaller. This approach allows you to get rid of needless applications without losing hardware drivers or desirable software.

Buying Computers

You can choose to completely avoid bloatware in the first place. Several high-end brands sell machines without it. They include Velocity Micro, Apple, Maingear and Puget. These companies charge more money for their computers, so they don’t need to gain extra revenue by placing adware or trialware on PCs.

Microsoft sells Signature Edition computers online and through MS stores. These machines come from a variety of top brands and contain little or no bloatware. Microsoft claims to optimize their performance as well. However, many models still include update utilities from manufacturers. These programs may have inefficient or insecure code.

The Signature product line includes machines from Dell, Asus and Lenovo. They come with Windows Defender rather than anti-virus trialware. The options range from gaming PCs to conventional notebook computers, according to PC World. Many models don’t cost much more than they do elsewhere. Compared to the Dell price, Microsoft charges $30 extra for an Inspiron laptop. It also supplies a lengthy warranty.

Building PCs

Yet another alternative is to buy Windows separately, order parts and assemble your own machines. They won’t contain any bloatware and you may decide exactly how you want to configure them. Some large organizations buy components in bulk and put together most or all of their desktop computers. An advantage is that replacement parts for these PCs cost relatively little and you can obtain them from numerous sources.

Basically, it’s possible to eliminate bloatware by thoroughly erasing specific programs, installing a fresh copy of Windows or buying bloatware-free PCs. This will improve security and boost performance. A variety of businesses depend on Raleigh IT Support Company and IT Services Provider | CSP Inc. to keep them informed about the newest IT developments and tips. To learn more, please contact info@cspinc.com or dial (919) 424-2000 today.