computer guru question

[sealie]

so I had to get a new computer -- because well... life.

so it's a leveno and there's so much extraneous stuff on it.

There seems to be loads of icons which are ads. And additional programmes which are leveno things with no function that I can figure out or seem to support/linked platforms for actual programmes -- like to go on the internet. I kind of pick my way around the computer feeling like I'm being monitored and watched and controlled. I loathe it. I don't' actually want to work/write on it.

Theoretically, I understand I could do a 'clean install' but my new computer didn't come with a separate copy of windows (like on a disc or something), which I thought it should, but it didn't

I have removed superfish (ick). I've googled and I now know the term 'bloatware' and have found this site:

http://www.shouldiremoveit.com/Lenovo-oem-bloatware.aspx

there's other programmes out there. But as you can probably tell from this post, I'm not the most technical computer literate person. I can get by, but I can't afford to break this computer.

So, fundamentally, does anyone have advice on what's the best way to identify what programmes/adware/crapware/bloatware can be safely removed without compromising function?

Comments

[lodondria.livejournal.com]

http://www.pcworld.com/article/2141881/beat-it-bloatware-how-to-clean-the-crap-off-your-pc.html is the best article I can find that has basic instructions.

the important thing is the part where they give you links for windows media downloads so you can do a clean install.

I could skype you through the process if you need.

I think the spam filter ate my first try

[lodondria.livejournal.com]

About half way down this article they link to Microsoft's how to get a clean copy of the operating system if you don't have a disk. That's your best bet for getting this stuff off your machine.

http://www.pcworld.com/article/2141881/beat-it-bloatware-how-to-clean-the-crap-off-your-pc.html

I think

[lodondria.livejournal.com]

your spam filter is eating my responses. argh

Re: I think

[jimandblair.livejournal.com]

I had hoped the follow your instructions this weekend, after a week away for work, but it didn't happen. I think what you've recommended is the most logical way forwards. Probably next

Re: I think

[jimandblair.livejournal.com]

weekend now (my days are as full as I can take!)

thank you.

Re: I think

[lodondria.livejournal.com]

if you really need to I'm ok with skyping tech support :) though, definitely do not start the process until you have lots of time to sit with it.

additional possibly useful info

[lodondria.livejournal.com]

here: http://lifehacker.com/the-complete-guide-to-avoiding-and-removing-windows-c-1630577558

[iibnf.livejournal.com]

I just google whatever looks odd. That'll tell you what you need and what you don't.

[ratcreature]

Urgh, that sounds icky. I'm no help because I always install Linux on my computers, but whenever I look at laptops as I'm currently (still haven't chosen my new one, instead still limping along with the glitchy old model for weeks now) I am aggravated that they almost always come with a Windows installed, rather than you being able to choose to just buy clean hardware, and I implicitly pay for that even though I'm not using it at all.

[mremre.livejournal.com]

The easiest is to delete anything that is not identified as Microsoft or windows. If you use the laptop for movies/DVDs, keep the video program too. If you paid for antivirus, keep it (otherwise Microsoft security essentials is good enough). Don't delete any games you might have installed. Literally anything else you use (printer, scanner, camera, etc) will install itself when you plug it in. Anything you buy will have is own installer.

If you don't recognize or don't use it, delete it! If you are willing to use tutorials, there's a bunch of "clean install Windows xyz" that is really the best option. You can get clean install from Microsoft as a download, either arstechnicaarstechnica or techradar can link you.

There's also the decrapifyer tool, but not sure how up to date it is. Good luck!

PS. Next time you're in the market for a windows laptop, try the Microsoft store online. All the brand laptops they (re)sell, they get rid of the bloatware for you. And there's usually a promo or coupon going around. Back to school is a great time to shop laptops.

Good luck!