Managing software efficiently is a core skill for any intermediate Windows user. Effective software management not only enhances system performance but also improves your workflow, data security, and system stability. This guide walks you through best practices and step-by-step strategies for Windows software management, focusing on built-in System Tools and introducing advanced solutions where appropriate.
Why Is Software Management Important in Windows?
Unmanaged software installations can clutter your system, use unnecessary resources, and even introduce security vulnerabilities. By adopting proper software management habits, you ensure your PC stays fast, reliable, and secure. This is especially important as your experience grows and you rely on more specialized tools.
How Do You Keep Track of Installed Software?
Step 1: Use Windows Settings for a Quick Overview
1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Apps > Installed Apps (or Apps & features on some versions).
3. Scroll through the list to view installed programs.
Tip: Here, you can sort by size, install date, or name to identify large or potentially unwanted software.
Step 2: Create a Software Inventory
For more comprehensive tracking:
1. Open PowerShell as Administrator.
2. Run the command: Get-ItemProperty HKLM:\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\* | Select-Object DisplayName, DisplayVersion, Publisher | Format-Table –AutoSize
3. Export the output to a file for documentation or review.
How Can You Effectively Update Software?
Step 1: Use Windows Update
Always keep Windows OS and Microsoft Store apps updated:
1. Open Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install available updates.
Step 2: Manage Third-Party Software Updates
Many applications do not update automatically. Regularly check the official websites for updates or use dedicated tools.
Step 3: Employ Glary Utilities for Update Management
Glary Utilities includes a Software Update tool:
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official site.
2. Open Glary Utilities and select Advanced Tools > Software Update.
3. Scan your system for outdated programs and follow prompts to update them securely.
How Do You Clean Up or Remove Unwanted Software?
Step 1: Use Built-in Uninstallers
1. Open Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
2. Select the program you wish to remove and click Uninstall.
Step 2: Remove Leftovers with Glary Utilities
Standard uninstallers often leave behind files and registry entries:
1. In Glary Utilities, go to Advanced Tools > Uninstall Manager.
2. Select the application to remove, then use Glary’s Deep Clean option to scrape leftover files and registry traces.
How Do You Automate Routine Software Maintenance?
Step 1: Schedule Regular Cleanups
Using Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance:
1. Open Glary Utilities.
2. Click 1-Click Maintenance.
3. Review the options such as Registry Cleaner, Shortcuts Fixer, Temporary Files Cleaner, and Startup Manager.
4. Set a schedule for automatic maintenance by clicking the Schedule button.
Step 2: Use Task Scheduler for Custom Scripts
For advanced users:
1. Open Task Scheduler.
2. Create a new Basic Task.
3. Point the action to a batch file or script that automates updates, cleans temp files, or checks for uninstalled software.
How Do You Monitor Startup Programs?
Step 1: Use Task Manager
1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Startup tab.
3. Disable unnecessary startup programs to improve boot time.
Step 2: Use Glary Utilities Startup Manager
1. In Glary Utilities, find Startup Manager under Advanced Tools.
2. Review and disable or delay unwanted startup entries, including hidden or obscure ones not visible in Task Manager.
How Can You Protect Against Unwanted Software and Vulnerabilities?
Step 1: Check Digital Signatures and Publishers
Before installing new software:
1. Right-click the installer > Properties > Digital Signatures tab.
2. Verify the publisher is reputable.
Step 2: Use Software Update Tools
Regularly check for security patches using Windows Update and Glary Utilities’ Software Update tool for third-party applications.
Step 3: Employ System Restore Points
Before major changes:
1. Type Create a restore point in the Start menu.
2. Select your system drive and click Create to make a backup in case new software causes issues.
Summary and Best Practices
– Maintain a current inventory of installed software.
– Regularly update all applications, not just Windows itself.
– Uninstall unused or unnecessary software and clean up leftovers.
– Use tools like Glary Utilities for comprehensive cleanup, update management, and scheduled maintenance.
– Monitor and manage startup programs for optimal performance.
– Always verify the trustworthiness of new installations and keep restore points for safety.
By following these steps and best practices, intermediate Windows users can ensure a lean, secure, and high-performing system, making software management a routine and stress-free task.