I spend a lot of time on the Internet ..... my system gets clogged up with ... files that can greatly hinder my computer's performance.

The best way... to keep my Windows computer in top shape is ...a regular maintenance schedule and using optimizer software designed for just that purpose. ... programs,... aren't free,..., search for and delete junk.... They also perform several other functions that will keep your system tuned up and running at its best.

While you might be able to find free versions of some of the utilities included in these suites, I think it's easier to pay to get a comprehensive system for cleaning out the junk. Here are my current favorites.

TuneUp Utilities 2004 cleans out junk files and optimizes system performance often with only one click of the mouse. In addition to streamlining your system, this app lets you customize icons, personalize your logon screen, and visually change the Windows interface for extra efficiency. (Shareware/Windows)

Ashampoo WinOptimizer Platinum Suite offers one-click optimization and several other features to keep your system in shape. This app has a slick, user-friendly interface that makes it easy to get rid of the files that slow down your system without deleting the important system and registry files you need. (Shareware/Windows)

Ace Utilities is my favorite for keeping my computer running smoothly, and it's what I use at home. You can zap broken shortcuts and duplicate files and even have Ace utilities keep an eye on programs that are common junk file culprits. This app also offers a handy feature to tell you which folders are taking up the most space so that you can zero in on problem areas. (Shareware/Windows)

Even if you're not on the Internet as much as I am, chances are you have plenty of junk files on your computer. Get your computer running lean and mean using one of these programs.