What types of files can I safely delete off my computer without harming it?

Question

I just deleted a lot stuff from my computer, such as mp3 files and useless programs I once downloaded. It's running a bit faster, but not well enough.
I know how to delete cookies and temporary internet files, but will doing it harm my computer?
And, besides those, are there any other types of files I can safely get rid of?

Answer 1

try a few things:

start > programs > accessories > system tools > disk cleanup.

start > settings > control panel, open 'add or remove programs' and uninstall all the programs which you no longer use.

download Abexo free registry cleaner and cleanup your registry:
http://www.download.com/Abexo-Free-Registry-Cleaner/3000-2094_4-10434887.html

download Lavasoft Ad-Aware and remove any spyware (its freeware)
http://www.lavasoftusa.com/products/ad-aware_se_personal.php

start > run > type 'msconfig' hit enter, from that window select the 'startup' tab, and remove those programs WHICH YOU RECOGNIZE that you don't need. dont simply uncheck everything. you need a lot of those.

download startupCPL (free), run it, and uncheck all the things you RECOGNIZE that you don't need.
http://www.mlin.net/StartupCPL.shtml

hope this helps!

Answer 2

deleting cookies and temp internet files will not harm your computer....when deleting programs though always check to make sure there is not an uninstall file included and then check if it is in add/remove programs...i do recommend that you never delete .dll files as sometimes they are shared and wont tell you that if you delete them some programs will stop working....

Answer 3

if you have a dell yopu can restore it back to an earlier date and the things will be removed BUT be sure you write all your passwords down cause they will be gone to and you need them to get bacxk into everything like yahoo, pogo etc.

Answer 4

http://mypchelp.blogspot.com/2006/10/pc-running-slow.html
http://bestofrest.blogspot.com/2006/11/ccleaner.html