I also use MyDefrag (http://www.mydefrag.com/) as a screen saver.

I periodically run CCleaner with most options checked.

I used to have this setup on XP and it kept the system very fast all the time. I now have Windows 7 with the same apps and running fine.

Make a clean install, in dual boot with Linux, and never boot the Windows OS, ever. This is the only way to keep it running smoothly.

Closed Source: Windows and Mac
Proprietary: Windows and Mac
Leased: Windows and Mac
Millions of applications available: Windows and Mac (Parallels and native for Mac, and what about Mac only programs not available for Windows?)

Windows is even more closed source than Mac. I don’t blame you for thinking you purchased Windows, even though the first paragraph of the Microsoft EULA clearly states that you leased Windows for use on one computer. (And to them, if you change something as simple as the amount of RAM in your computer, or the hard drive, or even upgrade the video card, you have a new computer).

runwithscissors and Dev D Patel: Registry cleaners, a lot of time they generally will do more harm than good, but not always.

Wheelnut53: CCleaner is a great file cleaner, much better than the build in Disk Cleaner of Windows. It even includes a mini registry cleaner. It deletes invalid registry entries if you use the second tab on the left. I use it religiously. But if you say you had problems with it, I won’t call you a liar. I just know I’ve had none.

Syahid A and Wheelnut53: I’ve never used Glary, but I’ll give it a try myself also. I’ve heard good things about it.

Switch: Does it take a program 2-3 minutes to open, or Windows 2-3 minutes to start up? The former is long, the latter is good

thats a good idea take a pc capable of running millions of applications and programs and replace it with a closed proprietary system only capable of running the 5 applications steve jobs has deemed ok for use on the mac you thought you bought and only leased….