free reg cleaner software where available?

Answer 1

Look for SpyBot, free online;
and Ad-Aware, also free online.

Run them regularly for a clean machine, and you still might want to invest in a Norton Anti-Virus program.

Answer 2

spybot and adaware will clean your registry but you have to kind of know the programs. as for norton it just sucks. i recommend advanced windows care. but some people report problems after using this program so you might want to just use the registry cleaner. it will fix registry problems. dont use the other tools unless you create a system restore point for safe measure. i use the program without problems. it protects against spyware, removes spyware, fixes computer problems, and clears temporary files as well as fixing registry problems. its a good program. it is 100% free.

http://www.iobit.com/AdvancedWindowsCarePersonal/download.htm