

However, all the data is still there and, unless you truly erase the hard drive, can be recovered using special software or hardware. Remember that erase, delete, wipe, and shred are technically different terms. Since the OS can't see the data, the drive looks empty when you look at its contents.

To truly erase hard drive data forever, you'll have to take some extra steps.Ī common way to "erase" data is to format the hard drive, but you don't actually erase the drive of its data when you do this, but instead only erase the location information for the data, making it "lost" to the operating system. Read how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar.If you want to completely erase a hard drive, it's not as easy as deleting everything on it. The aim was to push each software platform to see how useful its basic tools were and also how easy it was to get to grips with any more advanced tools. We then tested the service to see how the software could be used for different purposes and in different situations. To test for the best registry cleaners we first set up an account with the relevant software platform, whether as a download or as an online service. Additionally, free and budget software options can sometimes prove limited when it comes to the variety of tools available, while higher-end software can really cater for every need, so do ensure you have a good idea of which features you think you may require. When deciding which registry cleaner to download and use, first consider what your actual needs are, as sometimes free platforms may only provide basic options, so if you need to use advanced tools you may find a paid platform is much more worthwhile. We've also featured the best system utilities and repair software. You will have to upgrade to a premium plan before you can run the registry cleaner itself. However, this only enables you to run a scan and identify any problems. It offers a suite of performance optimization tools, with noteworthy features including an automatic maintenance optimizer, recommendations for actions that you should be taking, and a secure file shredder.Īt first glance, it appears that there’s an excellent free version. Free version only includes a scanning toolĪlthough most registry cleaners tend to be quite beginner-friendly and easy to use, AVG TuneUp stands out as being specifically targeted at tech newbies.
