Inquiring about essential Windows 10 features.
Inquiring about essential Windows 10 features.
How to completely remove apps from the C drive? I’m using ccleaner for uninstalling programs and fixing registries, but it doesn’t fully clear the app folders after removal. Some folders still show up in the C drive, which is frustrating. I want a proper clean, not just random deletions. I’m worried about causing issues by removing files randomly, so I need guidance on identifying which folders should be deleted. If I keep resetting my OS because of problems with apps installed there, please help me understand the right steps.
Uninstalling apps through the control panel or Windows settings should work well. Avoid using CCleaner unless necessary. If some app folders persist, they’re likely just leftover uninstall logs with minimal space usage. Don’t remove random folders from system directories without knowing what you’re doing—it’s not a good idea. Just follow the uninstall instructions and leave the folders untouched.
Initially, the registry doesn't require cleaning or repair; some cleaning tools can do more damage than good, so let them stay put. Consider using Revo Uninstaller or similar applications that monitor installs and automatically remove unwanted files. Also, try an imaging software such as Macrium Free, install your essential programs, and create backup images before installation. This approach is faster than reinstalling Windows and allows you to capture multiple states during app or driver setup. Anything meant to remove other programs must be active before new ones are installed, making it nearly impossible for the app to locate files afterward—planning ahead is crucial.
I’m unfamiliar with the phrase “pure clean.” I’ve come across “clean install” before. A clean install means starting from scratch, erasing everything on the drive and using Microsoft’s original files. It doesn’t retain any previous data, and all applications need to be reinstalled. The phrase “full wipe and reinstall” was more commonly used for similar tasks. Microsoft often creates its own terminology, likely for marketing purposes. If you follow this process, usually you back up important files first and then restore them afterward. This can become tricky when the files need to be linked directly to their original programs, as some applications don’t support reinstalling.
Pancakes. A bit unclear on the details. Searching shows a wiki at https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Revo_Uninstaller, which claims it's a more thorough uninstall tool. Not sure what it does.
In short, it removes the software by using its built-in uninstaller (if available), then checks system folders like AppData and MyDocuments, scans the registry for related entries, and finally lets you delete any leftover files.