So, after the series of articles on applications I think are good additions to Windows, I received several questions. A couple of which I will answer today.
The first, and my favorite, was regarding my choice of Revo Uninstaller (RevoUninstaller.com). John wrote and wanted to know why I do not like Microsoft’s “Programs and Features.” He wondered why he should not use that built in Windows application which is found in the Control Panel?
I have a really good reason, at least in my opinion. First, they are both made to remove or uninstall applications that have been placed on your computer. You know the drill. You have heard from a friend or someone like me that you should try the XYZ program. You install it and find that it is worthless and you no longer want it on your computer taking up space. So, you need to uninstall it as soon as you can.
I have found that when you use the built-in Programs and Features the program is indeed uninstalled; however, nowhere near completely. When you use that program to do an uninstall it can, and most times does, leave behind many unneeded folders and files. It may also leave many worthless pieces of information in your Windows Registry. The last part may never give you any issues and you may be unaware of it altogether but it could cause problems over time.
With Revo Uninstaller you direct it as to how deeply to probe for leftover unnecessary files. I always get it to run in the Advanced mode. That way it will first run the regular uninstall process that Windows does normally. However, it will then do a deep scan for any files left over from that procedure and offer to remove them too. I always take Revo’s suggestions and delete everything.
This makes for a much more thorough and professional cleaning which gives you back free disk space once it is completed. I have found some uninstalls where there are thousands of left over files to delete. I have found very few where it does not delete any files but it has happened to me on rare occasions.
I feel that Microsoft should be ashamed of the sloppy junk they leave behind on your system after a regular uninstall. And before you ask, Revo is free with a “Pro” version that does a few more things. I have used the free version for years without any issues and some fine cleaning.
The last question from another reader was, “Why did I slam Windows built in programs in those last articles?” I really did not slam them but I do believe you can sometimes get better apps to do the same thing from elsewhere. The MS programs are actually fine; however, if I can increase my gas mileage a little by using a different gas brand why not do it?