Gordon, if it's fast and safe defrag you want, then Diskeeper. Run it once
to defrag, then use function "set it and forget it" - it automatically
defrags in the backgoround whenever frags =>4% (and you can still elect to
run it manually - a defrag, after the initial one, typically takes <4 mins).
As for all the other Norton utilities (AND MORE) I'm using Tune-up Utilities
2004
http://www.tune-up.com/products/tuneup-utilities/ which also includes
Registry utilities (like, defrag the registry, remove dead entries, and best
of all a Registry Editor which automatically backs up before edit, AND
restores original setting if required. It also has a setting to auto-run
once a day, and a 1-click option to manually run the tests - superb prog!
Overkill perhaps, I also use pcbugdoctor - a little utility than runs once a
day, detects and removes all invalid shortcuts it finds (surprising just how
many XP generates over time, with or without program install/uninstall -
first run found about 300) Altho there's no explanation in detail, I always
use "fix errors now" - have yet to encounter a problem using this, after a
year or so of use.
All these have been either recommended in this ng, or by links from it in
posted replies.
Finally, I fully endorse AVG, especially for cable (always on) connection.
For those with dial-up, suggest routine update check, these are almost
daily. And, it's free!
Hope this helps - Len.
