Once considered the essential tool for optimizing and cleaning a PC, CCleaner has lost its reputation over the years. Initially appreciated for its simplicity and efficiency, the software has seen its reputation tarnished by questionable choices made by its developers. Since its takeover by Avast in 2017, many users have complained of forced updates, excessive addition of unnecessary features and an increasingly cumbersome interface that takes CCleaner further and further away from its primary objective: to lighten and speed up systems.
Caught red-handed collecting integrated data without clear user consent. These practices quickly gave rise to concern, prompting some cybersecurity experts to advise against the tool. Although Piriform (the publishing company) attempted to rectify the situation by offering greater transparency, user confidence was permanently shaken.
Technically speaking, CCleaner is no longer as powerful as it used to be. Its cleaning algorithms struggle to compete with modern alternatives, and some of its features, such as registry cleaning, are considered obsolete, useless or even dangerous on recent Windows systems. Tests show that its real impact on PC performance remains limited, while other modern tools offer more thorough cleaning without compromising user security.
BleachBit: This freeware is so powerful that even the NSA is said to have used it!
This totally free, open-source software offers advanced functionality without advertising or hidden data collection. Designed for in-depth deletion of unnecessary files, it can also permanently erase sensitive data, making recovery impossible. Unlike some competitors who integrate trackers or paid subscriptions, BleachBit favors total transparency and raw efficiency.
The tool came to public attention in 2016 when it was revealed thatHillary Clinton‘s teamhad used it to irreversibly delete emails as part of a federal investigation. This level of deletion, so powerful that it prevents any recovery, has helped reinforce BleachBit‘s reputation as an ultra-powerful cleaning solution. Although there have been rumors of its use by government agencies such as the NSA, there is no official proof of this. What is certain, however, is that its deletion algorithms comply with security standards recognized in the cybersecurity community.
In addition to its power, BleachBit stands out for its minimal impact on system performance. Unlike CCleaner, which runs in the background and consumes resources unnecessarily, BleachBit runs only when the user needs it. Its sober interface frees up maximum disk space without slowing down the computer. With features such as secure file overwriting and advanced cache cleaning, BleachBit is a must-have for those looking for a reliable, powerful and privacy-friendly cleaning tool.
Discover the best cleaning tools for your Windows PC.
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