There is a multi-billion dollar business built around selling PC and Mac cleaning software. They come in all shapes, sizes and prices and tout the necessity to clean, tune, and fix your computer so that it runs smoothly and efficiently. I’ve even written about many of these programs myself on Help Desk Geek and Online Tech Tips.
But do you really need all that software? Are there any real gains or is it just a bunch of fluff? Well the answer is, it depends. Sometimes a third-party program can provide a valuable service if you know how to use it.
However, I have found that most of the utilities recommended on the Internet are full of options and settings that can end up harming your computer more than helping. Not only that, a lot of the utilities themselves install malware onto your system, wreaking havoc.
When you talk about cleaning up a computer, whether it be a Mac or a PC, it could refer to any number of things. Let’s break down what each of those categories are and see if it makes sense to use them or not.
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Registry Cleaners
A long time back, I wrote a typical 10 best registry cleaners article and basically doled out a list of popular and semi-popular registry cleaners without really explaining anything.
What does a registry cleaner actually do? Well, it basically (and theoretically) is supposed to remove unused or old entries, thereby “speeding” up your computer.
Even if you remove only those entries that are not needed, the performance impact is minimal. If you try to do a search for actual performance tests done before and after using a registry cleaner, you’ll find that there are very few actual tests and in the tests, there is basically zero difference in performance.
So that’s point one. The second issue is that a lot of registry cleaners will clean out the wrong entries. The only one that I have used and continue to use is CCleaner. It’s the only one that will not break your system.
There is really not another one I can vouch for completely. It’s best to download the free version to see the benefits first, but the Professional version includes real-time monitoring, automatic updates and unlimited support, which is what I recommend on any PC.
At the end of the day, registry cleaners can break your computer, offer no real increase in performance and waste your time. If you want to speed up your computer, read my articles on how to speed up boot times in Windows and five ways to speed up Windows 10.
Also, uninstall useless programs on your system. That does a lot more in terms of performance than cleaning your registry.
File Cleaners
File cleaners are tools that will do their best to remove junk or unused files on your computer. This includes temporary files, cookies, Windows hotfixes, cache files, history files, log files, clipboard data, etc, etc. In my view, there are only two decent programs for this that you would ever need: CCleaner and PC Decrapifier.
CCleaner does a great job of cleaning out files that you may no longer need. Again, I’ve never really saved a significant amount of space from using the tool, but if you really want to be super neat and tidy, that’s all you need.
On average, I save about 1 GB in space when I run it every few months. Not a huge amount, but good if you have a small hard drive. You should also read my other post on how to clean up disk space in Windows by adjusting Windows settings.
PC Decrapifier is a program that helps you uninstall crap software that comes with new PCs you buy from Dell, HP, etc. I personally recommend just doing a clean install first and then using your computer. Here’s my guide on doing a clean install of Windows 10.
Uninstallers
If you install a lot of software on your PC, you can easily uninstall it yourself. However, there is a whole category of software to help you uninstall programs. Is this necessary? Kind of. I personally try not to install anything on my main PC that I won’t be using every day.
If I want to try something or my kids want a game to play, etc., I use a secondary machine and install all the junk. That machine then gets wiped every few months and starts all over again. I also use a virtual machine and load other software there.
If you don’t have a second PC or don’t know how virtual PCs work, you might have software on your system that you don’t want anymore. Most software will have uninstallers to properly remove all the files, but a lot of times they leave stuff behind. On top of that, some programs simply do not come with uninstallers, which is really annoying.
In those cases, I only suggest Revo Uninstaller. It’s been around for a long time and does the best job. It’s not free, so I would only spend the money if you have a lot of programs that didn’t come with proper uninstallers. Otherwise, you can uninstall them and then run CCleaner to clean out any old or unused entries from those programs.
Also, like with most of these tools, it comes with some other utilities that you really don’t need. However, it’s still OK in my book for some users as uninstalling programs is not necessarily a smooth experience in Windows.
Startup Cleaners
Startup cleaners are the really useless programs if you ask me. Windows has built-in tools to see all the startup programs on your system and there is really no need to see the startup drivers, DLLs, etc., that some of these programs tout. Beyond simple programs, it really makes no difference unless you’re a tech geek.
A lot of the programs claim they will give you descriptions and details on each of the programs and while this may be true, you really don’t need a program for that info.
Just read my article on how to change startup programs in Windows 7/8/10, then do a Google search on any startup item you’re not sure about!
I definitely do not recommend installing a startup cleaner as it’s something that can be done by the user with a little bit of time and research. Now, can disabling startup programs make a difference? Yes!
Startup programs can really slow down your PC, so it is a good idea to disable any you think you won’t need. Again, it’s like the registry because if you disable the wrong item, your computer may not work properly. Just do a little Googling before you disable something and you’ll be fine.
Duplicate File Finders
Another set of tools are geared towards removing duplicate files. I’ve had a lot of occasions where I copied the same photos or videos off my camera and then had a bunch of extra space being used because of that.
A duplicate file finder can save your some disk space if you have a lot of photos, videos, or music that might be duplicated.
Also, make sure you don’t buy anything. There are a lot of great free programs that can find duplicates, so don’t get suckered into purchasing something just to remove duplicates.
Browser/History Cleaners
For the most part, you really do not need browser and history cleaners. You can delete your own history just fine and make sure it can’t be recovered.
Most people end up buying this software because they have some shady browsing they need to hide and they get scared that someone will find it unless they use one of these tools that claim only their program can really delete your browsing history. Complete BS. Here are some previous article I wrote on the topic:
Basically, you want to delete your browsing history using the browser and clear the cache. That’s it. You don’t need any fancy tool to do that. No one has ever been able to recover my history. I even tried to recovery my own history to see if this was good enough and it was.
Internet Speed Boosters
Internet speed boosters are another useless category of software you should never install. These programs are more likely to break your Internet connection or slow it down more than speed anything up.
You want a faster Internet connection? Get a faster wireless router, clear up interference on your wireless network, and boost your Wifi signal.
There are some occasions where changing some TCP or network settings can speed up file write/read performance over the network, but that is usually for LAN traffic and not your Internet connection. Call your ISP and increase your download speed, but don’t install a speed booster!
Conclusion
As you can see from above, I don’t recommend installing too many so-called optimizers and tune-up utilities for your PC. There are a few good programs out there, but the majority suck.
Try to do as much as you can by yourself and then only use trusted programs like the ones I mentioned above. What are your thoughts about clean up utilities? Do you use any? Enjoy!
How to remove Advanced Mac Cleaner from Mac?
What is Advanced Mac Cleaner?
Advanced Mac Cleaner is a deceptive application that falsely claims to enhance computer performance by cleaning junk files, removing unwanted software, and providing other system optimization-related functionality. Judging on appearance alone, Advanced Mac Cleaner might seem legitimate, however, it is a potentially unwanted program (PUP) that typically infiltrates systems without users' consent.
Immediately after infiltration, Advanced Mac Cleaner performs a fake computer scan and displays dozens of 'issues'. Users are encouraged to immediately remove these errors, however, a problem is introduced: Advanced Mac Cleaner's free version is supposedly 'unable' to carry out this task. To resolve this, users are encouraged to pay for the full version of this (PUP). In fact, this program is a scam and the claims and list of errors are false - your system is likely to be completely safe and optimized. Furthermore, cyber criminals use Advanced Mac Cleaner to generate fraudulent revenue. They attempt to scare and trick victims into paying for a full version of this potentially unwanted program. As mentioned above, Advanced Mac Cleaner is likely to infiltrate systems without permission, together with other PUPs. These programs (mostly, adware-type software) usually collect sensitive information, deliver intrusive advertisements (coupons, banners, pop-ups, etc.), and misuse system resources. For these reasons, we strongly advise you to uninstall Advanced Mac Cleaner and other potentially unwanted programs immediately.
Name | Advaned Mac Cleaner potentially unwanted program |
Threat Type | Mac malware, Mac virus |
Detection Names (MacCleaner.pkg) | Avast (MacOS:AMC-EJ [PUP]), BitDefender (Gen:Variant.Application.MAC.OSX.AMCleanerCA.2), ESET-NOD32 (a variant of OSX/GT32SupportGeeks.V potentially unwanted), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal) |
Symptoms | Your Mac became slower than normal, you see unwanted pop-up ads, you get redirected to shady websites. |
Distribution methods | Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), fake flash player installers, torrent file downloads. |
Damage | Internet browsing tracking (potential privacy issues), displaying of unwanted ads, redirects to shady websites, loss of private information. |
Removal | To eliminate Advaned Mac Cleaner potentially unwanted program our malware researchers recommend scanning your computer with Combo Cleaner. ▼ Download Combo Cleaner Free scanner checks if your computer is infected. To remove malware, you have to purchase the full version of Combo Cleaner. |
There are hundreds of potentially unwanted programs similar to Advanced Mac Cleaner. For example, CompariShop, MacBright, TURBOMAC, and many others. As with Advanced Mac Cleaner, these other PUPs offer various 'useful features', however, these claims are merely attempts to trick users to install. The only purpose of potentially unwanted programs is to generate revenue for developers. Rather than providing any real value for regular users, they pose a direct threat to your privacy and Internet browsing safety.
How did Advanced Mac Cleaner install on my computer?
Advanced Mac Cleaner has an official download website, however, in most cases, this (and other similar PUPs) infiltrate systems without permission. Be aware that developers proliferate these programs by employing intrusive advertisements and a deceptive marketing method called 'bundling'. Intrusive advertisements usually redirect to infectious websites. Furthermore, some execute scripts that download and install malware. 'Bundling' is stealth installation of third party applications together with regular software/apps. Developers do not disclose these installations properly - they hide 'bundled' apps within 'Custom/Advanced' settings or other sections of the download/installation processes. Therefore, clicking various advertisements, rushing download/installation processes, and skipping steps, often leads to inadvertent installation of PUPs - users expose their systems to risk of various infections.
How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?
The main reasons for computer infections are poor knowledge and careless behavior. Therefore, be cautious when downloading/installing software and browsing the Internet in general. Select the 'Custom/Advanced' settings, carefully analyze each window of the download/installation dialogues, and cancel all additionally-included programs. In addition, avoid using any third party download/installation tools, since criminals monetize them by promoting dubious applications (the 'bundling' method). Note that criminals invest many resources into the design of intrusive advertisements. Therefore, they look legitimate, however, these ads are distinguishable for their redirects - most lead to gambling, adult dating, and other dubious websites. As mentioned above, intrusive ads are delivered by adware-type applications. If you encounter them, uninstall all suspicious programs and browser extensions. The key to computer safety is caution.
List of files created by Advanced Mac Cleaner application:
- ~/Library/Saved Application State/com.techyutils.cleaner.savedState/data.data
- ~/Library/Saved Application State/com.techyutils.cleaner.savedState/window_2.data
- ~/Library/Saved Application State/com.techyutils.cleaner.savedState/window_2.data
- ~/Library/Saved Application State/com.techyutils.cleaner.savedState/window_3.data
- ~/Library/Saved Application State/com.techyutils.cleaner.savedState/windows.plist
Deceptive application installers promoting Advanced Mac Cleaner PUP:
Screenshot of official Advanced Mac Cleaner installation setup:
Screenshot of Advanced Mac Cleaner PUP:
Fake error message encouraging users to download Advanced Mac Cleaner:
Advanced Mac Cleaner asking for user's permission to modify various system settings:
IMPORTANT NOTE! Advanced Mac Cleaner adds itself to the list of applications that automatically run upon each user log in. Therefore, before commencing, perform these steps:
- Go to System Preferences -> Users & Groups.
- Click your account (also know as Current User).
- Click Login Items.
- Look for 'Advanced Mac Cleaner' entry. Select it, and click the '-' button to remove it.
Instant automatic removal of Advaned Mac Cleaner potentially unwanted program:Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced computer skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of Advaned Mac Cleaner potentially unwanted program. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner for MacBy downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Free scanner checks if your computer is infected. To remove malware, you have to purchase the full version of Combo Cleaner.
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner for MacBy downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Free scanner checks if your computer is infected. To remove malware, you have to purchase the full version of Combo Cleaner.
Quick menu:
- STEP 1. Remove Advanced Mac Cleaner related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove Advanced Mac Cleaner ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove Advanced Mac Cleaner adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove Advanced Mac Cleaner ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove adware and browser hijackers from a Mac computer:
Advanced Mac Cleaner PUP removal:
Remove Advanced Mac Cleaner-related potentially unwanted applications from your 'Applications' folder:
Click the Finder icon. In the Finder window, select “Applications”. In the applications folder, look for “MPlayerX”,“NicePlayer”, or other suspicious applications and drag them to the Trash. After removing the potentially unwanted application(s) that cause online ads, scan your Mac for any remaining unwanted components.
Free scanner checks if your computer is infected. To remove malware, you have to purchase the full version of Combo Cleaner.
Remove advaned mac cleaner potentially unwanted program related files and folders:
Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...
Check for adware-generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents
In the “LaunchAgents” folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - “installmac.AppRemoval.plist”, “myppes.download.plist”, “mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist”, “kuklorest.update.plist”, etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the same string.
Check for adware generated files in the /Library/Application Support folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/Application Support
In the “Application Support” folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, “MplayerX” or “NicePlayer”, and move these folders to the Trash.
Check for adware-generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents folder:
In the Go to Folder bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents
In the “LaunchAgents” folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - “installmac.AppRemoval.plist”, “myppes.download.plist”, “mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist”, “kuklorest.update.plist”, etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the same string.
Check for adware-generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons
In the “LaunchDaemons” folder, look for recently-added suspicious files. For example “com.aoudad.net-preferences.plist”, “com.myppes.net-preferences.plist”, 'com.kuklorest.net-preferences.plist”, “com.avickUpd.plist”, etc., and move them to the Trash.
Scan your Mac with Combo Cleaner:
If you have followed all the steps in the correct order you Mac should be clean of infections. To be sure your system is not infected run a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus. Download it HERE. After downloading the file double click combocleaner.dmg installer, in the opened window drag and drop Combo Cleaner icon on top of the Applications icon. Now open your launchpad and click on the Combo Cleaner icon. Wait until Combo Cleaner updates it's virus definition database and click 'Start Combo Scan' button.
Combo Cleaner will scan your Mac for malware infections. If the antivirus scan displays 'no threats found' - this means that you can continue with the removal guide, otherwise it's recommended to remove any found infections before continuing.
After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.
Advaned Mac Cleaner potentially unwanted program removal from Internet browsers:
Remove malicious extensions from Safari:
Remove advaned mac cleaner potentially unwanted program related Safari extensions:
Open Safari browser, from the menu bar, select 'Safari' and click 'Preferences...'.
In the preferences window, select 'Extensions' and look for any recently-installed suspicious extensions. When located, click the 'Uninstall' button next to it/them. Note that you can safely uninstall all extensions from your Safari browser - none are crucial for normal browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Safari.
Remove malicious plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox:
Remove advaned mac cleaner potentially unwanted program related Mozilla Firefox add-ons:
Open your Mozilla Firefox browser. At the top right corner of the screen, click the 'Open Menu' (three horizontal lines) button. From the opened menu, choose 'Add-ons'.
Choose the 'Extensions' tab and look for any recently-installed suspicious add-ons. When located, click the 'Remove' button next to it/them. Note that you can safely uninstall all extensions from your Mozilla Firefox browser - none are crucial for normal browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Mozilla Firefox.
Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
Remove advaned mac cleaner potentially unwanted program related Google Chrome add-ons:
Open Google Chrome and click the 'Chrome menu' (three horizontal lines) button located in the top-right corner of the browser window. From the drop-down menu, choose 'More Tools' and select 'Extensions'.
In the 'Extensions' window, look for any recently-installed suspicious add-ons. When located, click the 'Trash' button next to it/them. Note that you can safely uninstall all extensions from your Google Chrome browser - none are crucial for normal browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.