Buzz
This tutorial provides instructions on how to download, install, and utilize the free CCleaner software on your Windows PC. CCleaner functions as a tool for cleaning up unnecessary files such as cookies, caches, and browsing history from your computer. However, it's important to note that frequent use of CCleaner, more than once every couple of months, can potentially reduce your computer's lifespan.
Step-by-Step Guide
Downloading and Installing CCleaner
Access the CCleaner download page. Visit https://www.ccleaner.com/ using your computer's web browser.
Click the Free Download button. This button appears in green near the top of the page.
Scroll down and click the Download button. It's a green button located below the 'FREE' section.
Wait for CCleaner to finish downloading. The download should start automatically.
- If CCleaner doesn't start downloading automatically, you may need to click the green Start Download button.
- Depending on your browser's settings, you might have to choose a location to save the file and/or confirm the download.
Double-click the CCleaner setup file. This is the file you downloaded earlier.
Click Yes when prompted. This action will open the CCleaner installation window.
Avoid CCleaner from including freeware during installation. To prevent CCleaner from adding unwanted software, deselect the option labeled 'Yes, install Avast Free Antivirus' at the bottom of the window.
- Depending on the timing of your CCleaner installation, the bundled freeware may vary. As a general guideline, it's advisable not to allow CCleaner to install additional software.
Tap on Install. Located in the center of the window, this button is blue. CCleaner will commence the installation process.
Press Run CCleaner when prompted. This blue button is positioned centrally within the post-installation window of CCleaner. By clicking it, you can launch CCleaner and start utilizing its features.
Utilizing CCleaner
Launch CCleaner in case it doesn't automatically open. Simply double-click on the CCleaner application icon, which resembles a red letter 'C', on your computer's desktop.
Evaluate a category for cleaning. CCleaner will target two categories of programs: those that come pre-installed on your computer and those you've installed yourself. You can view the items that will be cleaned by clicking on one of the tabs below:
- Windows — Displays files from default Windows programs.
- Applications — Displays files from programs you've personally installed.
Deselect the boxes next to items you wish to keep. In the list of programs under your selected tab, uncheck any boxes next to items (e.g., 'Cookies') that you prefer CCleaner not to delete.
- By default, CCleaner will check all available boxes.
Tap on Analyze. This is a blue button located at the lower-left corner of the window. Clicking it prompts CCleaner to search for files to remove.
Follow any instructions provided. If CCleaner needs to analyze a program while it's open, you'll be prompted to close the program. Click Close to proceed.
Examine the files slated for removal. Scroll through the list of files identified by CCleaner; if you come across any files you prefer CCleaner not to delete, uncheck the respective boxes on the left side, then click Analyze again to refresh the results.
Tap on Run Cleaner. This blue button can be found in the bottom-right corner of the window.
Tap on Continue when prompted. Doing so initiates CCleaner to start removing temporary files and folders from your computer.
Allow CCleaner to complete the cleaning process on your computer. Depending on the volume of temporary files CCleaner has to erase, this process may take from a few seconds to several minutes.
Refrain from using CCleaner more frequently than once every couple of months. Unlike the built-in clean-up options on your computer, CCleaner can potentially cause damage to your computer's hard drive over time. If you limit your use of CCleaner to once every couple of months, you can safely continue using it indefinitely.
Pointers
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If downloading CCleaner isn't your preference, you can always utilize your computer's Disk Cleanup feature. Simply search for it in Start, open it, select the options you wish to remove, and click OK.
Cautionary Notes
- Make sure to carefully inspect the list of files slated for deletion before authorizing CCleaner to proceed.
