EzRegistryCleaner

EzRegistryCleaner specializes in registry cleaning, basically removing any orphaned or problematic entries which prevent the system from working within normal parameters. Well, this type of software cannot actually perform miracles, but sometimes it delivers surprisingly good results.

The element of surprise, however, lacks in the setup procedure, as installation is fast and uncomplicated. The interface has a neatly structured layout where all main features are broken down into separate categories like cleaning, repairing, optimizing, managing, backing up, and options.

The "Home" tab provides quick access to several scanning methods. These include system fixup and optimization (by ridding it of invalid registry keys), junk file removal (to free up disk space and improve PC performance), and history deletion (for keeping personal information private).

It is also possible to repair disassociated registry entries in the attempt to prevent worst case scenarios where Windows crashes, restore settings to default in Internet Explorer, as well as to block malicious ActiveX objects and secure the system. Scanning can be performed for any of these modes, as well as for everything at once.

Consequently, results are split into multiple tabs by category, showing useful information such as registry file names and paths, and junk file size. Meanwhile, an overall evaluation is made on the total problematic registry entries, junk files, and the rest.

The program makes room for customization when it comes to choosing the areas to include in the scanner for each category. For instance, the registry cleaner is able to look into ActiveX, OLE and COM entries, system software settings, sounds and app events, MRU and history lists, and the list goes on. The junk file cleaner's target can be modified by excluding drive letters from the scan, while the same rule applies to the evidence cleaner when it comes to picking Windows, browser and plugin areas.

Other tools implemented by EzRegistryCleaner include a file shredder (permanently delete data beyond recovery via specialized software), Internet optimizer (e.g. maximum IE threads, speed up LAN browsing, enable load balancing with multi-network adapter), startup manager (remove entries which automatically run at system startup), and registry backups.

The tool certainly sports a generous set of features for novices and experienced users alike. It used low CPU and RAM during our evaluation, and carried out scanning in reasonable time.

On the other hand, EzRegistryCleaner does not integrate an option for handpicking the exact issues you want fixed. Instead, it takes care of all of them. Google Chrome and Internet Explorer were not identified during our evaluation for the evidence cleaner. Too bad the app has not been updated for a long time. Otherwise it would make a great all-round system cleaner, and not just for the registry.