Disk Cleanup

• The Disk Cleanup tool comes standard with Windows. This tool removes your all your temporary files, including your temporary Internet files. It removes your downloaded program files, such as Java applets and Active X controls that you automatically download when visiting some Web pages. It also removes your saved thumbnails and empties your recycle bin. To use this program, click the Windows orb, "All Programs," "Accessories," "System Tools" and finally click "Disk Cleanup."
  
  

Disk Defragmenter

• Disk Defragmenter comes standard with Windows. Whenever you move or alter files, your computer stores the files in broken pieces on your hard drive. Over time, your computer can run slowly because it has to search all over your hard drive to find the pieces. Disk Defragmenter takes the pieces, and assembles them whole in one spot. This way your computer finds files easier and quicker, resulting in overall faster performance. To run Disk Defragmenter, click the Windows orb, "All Programs," "Accessories," "System Tools" and then click "Disk Defragmenter."
  
  

Registry Cleanup

• The registry is a database of information for your computer's hardware, software, setting and user profiles. Usually, you don't need to edit the registry because software is designed to do it automatically for you. However, sometimes software works improperly, and it leaves behind registry errors. Or even worse, malware or adware can make a mess of your registry. This is why you should use a registry cleaner on a regular basis to keep fix errors, and keep everything working optimally. Windows doesn't have a native registry cleaner, but you can download or buy automatic registry cleaners like CCleaner, RegCure or Registry Mechanic.
  
  

File Compressors

• File compressors, also known as file archivers, allow you to take one or multiple files and shrink their size into one smaller package. Most operating systems have built-in decompression software that handles most popular file formats. If you want to compress files or decompress some lesser-known formats, you need to look beyond the native software. There are various file compression tools you can buy or download for free, such as 7-Zip, WinRAR and WinZip.