Whenever we install an application, it not only creates new folders and copies its files, but also makes registry changes, modifies file associations and creates menu and desktop shortcuts. This would present no problem if it were not for the fact that when we decide to uninstall certain programs, they usually forget to undo all the changes made, leaving junk data behind. As a consequence, these leftovers gradually occupy disk space and reduce system performance.
Advanced Uninstaller PRO offers to uninstall programs once and for all; and although this is its main feature, this application is in fact a much more complete set of utilities. Considering this program’s complexity, the developers have made a great job at making it really easy to use. The touch-screen-ready interface has a modern-looking Windows 8 style with big buttons and proper captioning. This simplicity will help you feel at ease and evaporate the fear that most users feel when dealing with new software. However, you will probably sense some incongruence between the type of design used in initial screens and that in secondary windows.
The multiple services offered by this application are divided into four categories. In General Tools, you will find the option to uninstall software. I tested this feature by uninstalling some unneeded programs and I was surprised to see how many remaining files and registry entries were detected by Leftover Scanner after uninstalling. In this category, you will also find such tools as Startup Manager, Services Manager, Quick Cleaner, Start Menu Cleaner, Font Manager, Control Panel Manager and Web Tools. It is true that similar tools can be found as independent applications or as part of suites; however, there is another that deserves special attention: it is called Monitored Installations, which will monitor a program’s installation and create an installation log. This will serve as a guide to completely remove all the changes made, leaving no traces of the program behind.
The category labeled File and Registry Tools includes tools to find duplicate files, compress files, shred files and erase Windows temporary files. In addition, it allows such operations on the registry as cleaning, optimizing, backing up and restoring. Another category is called Internet Browser Tools. There you will find utilities to erase browsing history and temporary files as well as manage cookies and add-ons. Three popular browsers are supported: Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome and Internet Explorer; however, it does not support Opera. Finally, there is the Reports category, which allows viewing or printing reports about the rest of the procedures.
In general, Advanced Uninstaller PRO is an absolute necessity and the best protection against faulty program uninstalls. Luckily, it is free.
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