The best troubleshooting and computer maintenance software for Windows

An operating system can accumulate unnecessary files, system errors and background processes that impact its performance. Without regular maintenance, the computer becomes slower, more prone to breakdowns and vulnerable to security threats. The use of specialized troubleshooting and computer maintenance software can optimize system operation by removing superfluous elements, correcting errors and reinforcing overall stability.

A system overloaded with temporary files, obsolete registry entries or unwanted software places unnecessary demands on CPU and RAM, leading to a gradual decline in performance. The most effective maintenance tools automate system optimization by identifying and resolving these problems before they become critical. In this article, we present the best troubleshooting and computer maintenance software for Windows. These tools enable you to clean up your system, correct errors, optimize performance and enhance your computer’s security.

Essential tools for troubleshooting and maintenance

Although computers are becoming more and more accessible, they are still subject to various technical problems: slowdowns, system errors, hardware failures or malware infections. Faced with these challenges, the right maintenance and troubleshooting tools are essential to ensure computer stability and performance.

Whether it’s cleaning up unnecessary files, repairing common Windows errors, optimizing performance or protecting the system against threats, there’s a wealth of software designed to simplify these tasks. Some tools enable rapid, automated intervention for novice users, while others offer advanced features designed for technicians and IT professionals.

We use these tools as part of our online computer troubleshooting service to help our customers solve their technical problems.

Cleaning your PC: The best software and utilities

As part of our selection of the best troubleshooting and computer maintenance tools for Windows, we’ve put together the most effective software and utilities for cleaning your PC. From deleting useless files and optimizing startup to completely uninstalling programs, these solutions will help you keep your system running smoothly and responsively.

Assistools: free Windows maintenance software in one click

Assistools is a free utility designed to simplify the maintenance and optimization of Windows PCs. Its main strength lies in its one-click approach, enabling users to clean, repair and secure their systems without the need for advanced technical knowledge. Thanks to efficient automation, it performs a number of essential tasks, such as deleting temporary files, repairing corrupted system files and rapid scanning with Windows Defender.

With its intuitive, uncluttered interface, Assistools is aimed at both home users and professionals looking for a fast, reliable way to maintain their machines. It uses native Windows commands such as DISM and SFC to guarantee in-depth Windows repair, while remaining lightweight and secure. It helps improve computer responsiveness by freeing up disk space and optimizing system performance.

Completely free of charge, Assistools is an interesting alternative to paid maintenance software for extending the life of PCs. It’s easy to install, and requires only the Visual C++ Redistributable Runtimes 2015 to function correctly. Available for download from the official website, it’s an indispensable tool for any user who wants to maintain their computer effortlessly.

CCleaner : Free up disk space and speed up your computer

CCleaner is an optimization software designed for Windows users who want to maintain a fast, efficient system. It removes unnecessary files generated by the system and applications, such as browser caches, temporary files and error logs, freeing up disk space and improving overall computer performance. Its simple, intuitive interface enables these operations to be carried out in just a few clicks, making maintenance accessible to even the most inexperienced users.

One of CCleaner’s most useful features is its ability to manage startup programs. Many applications run automatically when Windows starts up, slowing down system initialization. With CCleaner, you can identify and disable these superfluous programs, speeding up start-up times and reducing the load on system resources. This tool is particularly useful for optimizing the performance of aging or overloaded computers.

In addition to cleaning and boot optimization, CCleaner offers other features such as Windows registry error correction, program uninstallation and system restore point management. Available as a free version with basic features, it also has a professional version with advanced options such as real-time monitoring and automatic updates. To free up space or improve PC responsiveness, CCleaner remains the benchmark solution for computer maintenance.

Discover our guide to extending CCleaner’s functionality and deleting even more temporary files.

Advanced SystemCare: All-in-one software to optimize your PC

Advanced SystemCare is maintenance and optimization software for Windows, developed by IObit. It offers a set of tools designed to improve system performance by cleaning up unnecessary files, optimizing settings and reinforcing the security of personal data. Available in both free and paid versions, it speeds up computer start-up, optimizes memory and protects privacy by removing browsing traces.

Its Pro version includes advanced features such as deep registry cleaning, real-time malware protection and automatic updates for critical components. What’s more, Advanced SystemCare continuously monitors system status, detecting anomalies likely to affect performance and proposing appropriate solutions.

Despite its many assets, some users criticize the frequency of notifications and integrated promotional offers. This is explained by IObit’s business model, which uses Advanced SystemCare as a platform to promote its other products. These include Driver Booster, a popular tool for updating drivers, which often features among the software’s recommendations. This marketing strategy, although sometimes considered intrusive, enables IObit to offer a free version of Advanced SystemCare while promoting its ecosystem.

TreeSize: Quickly identify files that are overloading your disk

TreeSize is a disk space analysis and management software designed for Windows systems. It enables users to examine in detail the distribution of files and folders on their hard disks, offering intuitive visualization in the form of tables, treemaps and interactive graphs. Thanks to its clear interface and optimized performance, it makes it easy to identify large or unused files, to quickly free up storage space.

Available in several versions, including a free edition, TreeSize offers features tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses alike. The professional version includes advanced tools such as network share analysis, duplicate file search and detailed exportable reports. What’s more, it integrates with Windows Explorer for fast access and direct file management without leaving the system’s native interface.

TreeSize is a powerful and versatile tool for optimizing the use of storage resources. It enables efficient monitoring of disk space evolution, anticipates problems linked to lack of storage and automates certain analysis and cleaning tasks. Its ergonomic design and wide range of functions make it a must-have for any user wishing to manage disk space efficiently.

Revo Uninstaller: A more powerful uninstaller than Windows

Revo Uninstaller is an advanced uninstaller designed to completely remove any programs under Windows, including their residual files and registry entries. Unlike conventional uninstallers, it scans the system after the initial removal to detect and eliminate any remaining traces, ensuring clean removal and optimizing computer performance. It also offers features such as forced uninstall to remove recalcitrant or corrupt programs.

Available in both free and Pro versions, Revo Uninstaller offers additional tools such as “Hunter Mode”, which lets you uninstall a program simply by pointing to its icon, and a Startup Manager to control which applications run when Windows is launched. The Pro version includes advanced features such as real-time installation monitoring, useful for completely undoing system modifications.

Compatible with Windows Vista, 7, 8, 10 and 11, Revo Uninstaller is available in a portable version, enabling use without installation on multiple machines. It is a reliable solution for users wishing to maintain a clean, high-performance system by effectively removing unwanted software and its traces.

Securing your PC: The best software and tools

As part of our selection of the best tools for protecting your computer, we’ve put together a list of the most effective software and utilities for securing your PC. Protection against viruses and malware… These solutions will help you strengthen your system’s defense against online threats and preserve the integrity of your data.

ESET Online Scanner: The free tool for in-depth system analysis

ESET Online Scanner is a free threat detection tool that analyzes and removes malware from a computer without requiring permanent installation. Compatible with Windows, it detects various types of threat, including viruses, Trojans and spyware. Its use requires only a simple download and direct execution, with no lasting system modifications.

Featuring an advanced scanning engine, ESET Online Scanner can be used to perform a complete or targeted check, offering a second opinion to complement an installed antivirus. It benefits from ESET’s proactive detection technology, guaranteeing effective identification of suspicious files while limiting false positives. At the end of the scan, the tool offers options for removing or quarantining detected threats.

ESET Online Scanner is an effective one-off scan, but does not replace a real-time protection solution. It is, however, an ideal alternative for detecting possible infections and reinforcing the security of a system already equipped with an antivirus. Easy to use, ESET Online Scanner is ideal for both home users and professionals wishing to check the integrity of their devices without compromising performance.

ESET voted Antivirus of the Year: Discover our comparison of the best antivirus products.

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free: A powerful tool for virus removal

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free specializes in detecting and removing malware such as viruses, Trojans, ransomware and spyware. It offers in-depth system analysis to identify threats and eliminate them efficiently. Unlike conventional antivirus software, this program focuses exclusively on eradicating infections already present, without providing real-time protection.

Its free version lets you run manual scans on demand, with a signature database that is regularly updated to keep pace with new threats. Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and ChromeOS, it is an effective complement to traditional antivirus tools. However, the absence of active protection means that it does not block infections before they occur.

For users who want even greater security, Malwarebytes offers a Premium version with real-time protection, scheduled scans and a malware blocker. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a powerful tool for cleaning infected devices and ensuring a more secure system, whether used in conjunction with an antivirus program or for occasional scans.

ZHPCleaner : A free tool to clean your browser

ZHPCleaner is a free program developed by Nicolas Coolman, designed to detect and remove adware, hijackers and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). Its main objective is to restore web browsers to their original settings, removing malicious extensions, superfluous toolbars and unwanted redirects. It is particularly useful for users faced with unsolicited changes to their home page, search engine or proxy.

Easy to use, ZHPCleaner features an intuitive interface for fast, efficient system scans. After the scan, it generates a detailed report on the threats detected, enabling them to be removed with a single click. Its operation is based on a database that is regularly updated to identify new threats, guaranteeing optimum protection against common infections that impair the browsing experience.

Although ZHPCleaner is a powerful tool, it should be used with caution, especially when detecting sensitive files. Some false positives may be reported, requiring manual verification before deletion. For complete protection against online threats, we recommend pairing it with a traditional antivirus.

AdwCleaner: Free adware removal software

AdwCleaner is a free program developed by Malwarebytes, designed to detect and remove unwanted programs (PUPs), adware, superfluous toolbars and browser hijackers. It enables users to effectively clean up their system by removing these items, which can slow down the computer or compromise Internet browsing.

The tool stands out for its ease of use: no installation process is required, simply download and run AdwCleaner to launch an in-depth scan. Once the scan is complete, the software displays a detailed report on the threats detected, enabling them to be eliminated with a single click. A system restart may be required to complete the cleanup.

Compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 and 11, AdwCleaner is an effective solution for users wishing to protect their computer from potentially harmful programs without resorting to a full antivirus. Its efficiency makes it a benchmark tool for cleaning PCs clogged with unwanted software and unsolicited changes to system settings.

HitmanPro : Free behavioral analysis to block malware

HitmanPro is advanced security software designed to detect and eliminate computer threats such as malware, ransomware, spyware and other malicious software. Originally developed by Dutch company SurfRight before its acquisition by Sophos in 2015, this tool stands out for its approach based on behavioral analysis rather than simple virus signatures. Thanks to this technology, it is able to identify emerging threats and zero-day attacks, strengthening user protection against unknown infections.

Lightweight and portable, HitmanPro requires no installation and can be run directly after downloading. It draws on several databases from security laboratories to improve detection accuracy. Compatible with other antivirus products, it works as a second line of defense, offering in-depth system analysis without interfering with existing security solutions. A complementary version, HitmanPro.Alert, integrates real-time protection against exploits, keyloggers and targeted attacks.

Offered with a free 30-day trial version, HitmanPro lets users test its features before investing in a full license. Its efficiency, speed of analysis and proactive approach make it a preferred choice for users wishing to strengthen their system’s security against advanced threats.

Data recovery : The best software and utilities

Loss of critical files, hard disk corruption, accidental deletion… Data recovery enables you to restore information lost as a result of a computer incident. In response to these situations, we have selected the best software and utilities for recovering your data in the best possible way.

Recuva: The free software for recovering deleted files

Recuva is data recovery software developed by Piriform for restoring accidentally deleted files under Windows. It supports a variety of storage media, including hard disks, USB sticks and memory cards, and can recover deleted files even after emptying the Recycle Bin. Thanks to its intuitive interface and wizard mode, it guides users through the recovery process according to the type of file they are looking for.

The tool offers two scanning modes: a quick scan to recover recently deleted files, and an in-depth scan that scans the disk in detail to maximize chances of recovery. Recuva also includes a secure deletion function for permanently deleting files, preventing future recovery. Its compatibility with FAT and NTFS file systems makes it a versatile solution for a variety of Windows environments.

Available in a free version and a professional edition with advanced features, Recuva is an affordable alternative for data recovery. However, its effectiveness depends on file fragmentation and the time elapsed since deletion. Although a powerful tool, it can be complemented by more advanced solutions such as EaseUS Data Recovery or Stellar Data Recovery for complex data loss situations.

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: Powerful data recovery software

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is software designed to recover lost or deleted files from a variety of storage media, such as hard drives, USB sticks, memory cards and SSDs. Compatible with Windows and macOS, it supports multiple file systems, including NTFS, FAT32, exFAT and EXT. Its intuitive interface enables even novice users to quickly recover documents, photos, videos or e-mails erased by mistake, after a formatting or system crash.

The software offers two scanning modes: a quick scan to find recently deleted files, and an in-depth scan that scans the media in detail to restore more difficult-to-access data. A preview feature lets you check the contents of files before proceeding with recovery, guaranteeing greater accuracy and avoiding unnecessary restoration of corrupt or unwanted files.

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is available as a free version, with a recovery limit of 2 GB of data, and as a paid version, which offers unlimited recovery and advanced tools for professionals. Appreciated for its efficiency and ease of use, the software has received some criticism for the limitations of the free version and the cost of the full license.

Driver update : The best computer maintenance software

Obsolete or incompatible drivers can lead to malfunctions, reduced performance or system errors. To simplify this task, we have selected the best computer maintenance software dedicated to driver management. Automated updates, detection of obsolete versions, installation of certified drivers… These tools keep your system up to date and improve the compatibility of your hardware components with your operating system.

Driver Booster: A database of millions of drivers

Driver Booster is a program developed by IObit that automatically updates Windows drivers. It scans the computer for obsolete, corrupt or missing drivers, then offers to update them with a single click. By keeping drivers up to date, it improves system performance, optimizes peripheral compatibility and reduces the risk of crashes or instability.

The software features a database of millions of drivers covering a wide range of hardware components, such as graphics cards, network cards, sound cards and USB peripherals. It also offers advanced features such as automatic driver backup before updating, recovery in the event of problems and a Game Boost mode that optimizes system resources for a better gaming experience.

Available in both free and paid Pro versions, Driver Booster offers a solution accessible to all users, from beginners to the most experienced. However, it is advisable to use the tool with caution, notably by creating a restore point before any update to avoid possible incompatibilities.

Discover our article dedicated to Windows driver updates.

Hardware diagnostics: The best software for Windows

Unexplained slowdowns, recurring system errors or a drop in performance may be signs of a hardware problem. To identify the source of these malfunctions, specialized diagnostic software enables in-depth analysis of your computer’s components. We’ve selected the best tools for Windows, capable of assessing the state of the processor, RAM memory, hard disk, graphics card and other critical elements. Real-time monitoring, stress tests, fault detection… These software programs will help you anticipate possible breakdowns and optimize the performance of your hardware.

OCCT: Advanced diagnostics to detect hardware weaknesses

OCCT(OverClock Checking Tool) is a software program specialized in testing the stability and performance of computer components. It is particularly useful for checking the reliability of the processor (CPU), random access memory (RAM), graphics card (GPU) and power supply unit (PSU), especially after overclocking modifications. Thanks to its advanced stress tests, it can detect any thermal, electrical or system stability problems.

The tool integrates real-time monitoring of temperatures, voltages and frequencies, displaying detailed graphs for in-depth performance analysis. What’s more, OCCT features a benchmarking module for comparing results with those of other configurations. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to use for both enthusiasts and professionals seeking to diagnose hardware faults.

Available free of charge for Windows, OCCT is the essential software for testing and optimizing PCs. It is an invaluable ally for users wishing to ensure that their hardware is running smoothly, prevent failures and maximize the longevity of their components.

HWMonitor: PC temperature monitoring software

HWMonitor is a hardware monitoring software developed by CPUID, designed to display real-time temperatures, voltages and fan speeds of computer components. It supports a wide range of hardware, including Intel and AMD processors, NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards, as well as hard disks via S.M.A.R.T. information. Its simple, hierarchical interface enables rapid reading of the current, minimum and maximum values recorded, providing precise monitoring of system status.

HWMonitor’s features help prevent problems associated with overheating and voltage fluctuations by providing detailed visibility of hardware performance. It is particularly useful for users seeking to optimize their machine’s cooling, monitor their system’s stability or detect any anomalies that could lead to a breakdown. It can be used by technicians and overclocking enthusiasts alike, who want to adjust their settings in complete safety.

Easy to install and light on resources, HWMonitor is an efficient and reliable solution for monitoring PC performance. It is available as a classic or portable version and can be downloaded from the official CPUID website. For more advanced requirements, alternatives such as HWiNFO64 or Libre Hardware Monitor can be considered, offering additional features suitable for experienced users.

HWiNFO: A tool for diagnosing your PC

HWiNFO is an advanced utility for in-depth analysis of PC hardware and real-time performance monitoring. It provides detailed information on the processor, motherboard, memory, graphics cards, hard disks and many other components. Available in 32- and 64-bit versions, as well as a portable version, it is compatible with Windows systems and requires no installation for mobile use.

Thanks to its real-time system, HWiNFO monitors component temperatures, voltages and frequencies, making it easy to detect potential problems such as overheating or abnormal power consumption. The tool also offers customized alerts and the generation of detailed graphical reports for in-depth analysis of hardware performance.

Aimed at advanced users, overclocking enthusiasts and IT professionals, HWiNFO stands out for its precision and wealth of information. Its interface, though technical, remains ergonomic for those accustomed to hardware analysis. Free and regularly updated, it represents a reliable alternative to paid hardware diagnostics software.

Specialized software for IT professionals

Professional computing requires high-performance tools tailored to the specific needs of technicians, system administrators and developers. To meet these requirements, we have selected the best software for IT professionals. Performance monitoring, advanced troubleshooting… These utilities offer advanced features to optimize technical work and improve day-to-day productivity, but are complex to use for beginners.

Boîte A Outils (BAO): The indispensable companion for computer troubleshooters

La Boîte A Outils (BAO) is a free, open-source software package designed to facilitate the work of computer troubleshooters, whether freelance or in-house. Developed by Bastien Rouchès of Isergues Informatique, BAO offers a set of automated tools to speed up technical interventions on Windows computers. With features such as remote control, silent software installation, driver management and data backup, it optimizes maintenance and repair processes.

With its intuitive interface, BAO simplifies complex tasks in just a few clicks, reducing technician intervention time. The application can also download the latest versions of Windows and Office, run customized scripts and generate detailed service reports. Since version 1.1.0, it has included a customer and intervention management module, improving the tracking of actions carried out on each machine.

Compatible with Windows 7, 8.1, 10 and 11, BAO is fully customizable and ad-free. Its source code is available on GitHub for those wishing to adapt it to their needs. This makes BAO an indispensable tool for professionals wishing to optimize their efficiency while guaranteeing quality service to their customers.

Sysinternals Suite: A toolbox for Windows administrators

The Sysinternals Suite is a set of advanced tools developed by Microsoft for the analysis, diagnosis and management of Windows systems. Originally designed by Mark Russinovich and Bryce Cogswell, the suite includes utilities for real-time process monitoring, network connection examination, boot item management and system activity analysis. It is particularly popular with system administrators and advanced users for troubleshooting and performance optimization.

Among its most popular tools, Process Explorer provides an advanced alternative to the Task Manager, displaying in-depth details of processes and their dependencies. Autoruns lets you control which programs and services are automatically launched when Windows starts up, while Process Monitor records registry, file and process activity in real time to identify potential problems. TCPView provides a detailed overview of active network connections.

Free of charge and regularly updated, the Sysinternals Suite is available for download from the official Microsoft website. The tools can be used individually or as a whole, with a version integrated into the Microsoft Store for simplified installation. Essential for advanced Windows management, this suite is an indispensable resource for optimizing system security and stability.

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