What programs should computer techs keep handy?

Question

I just got a job doing a Geek Squad type thing for a small company. I'm going to be one of 2 techs there and I'm pretty new at everything. This is basically a paid internship for me...although its a 40 hour job, so a pretty nice learning experience. I'm wondering which programs do you guys keep on you at all times? Like, I would think AVG antivirus and Ad-aware are a couple of good free programs I can instal on clients computers, but what else would you recommend? Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Unlocker unlocks "locked" files.

Windows Install cleanup. Two versions XP and Vista

Answer 2

All FOSS for me! ClamAV is a MUST for Windows based PCs. The Gparted live CD is also nice for partitions. A Ubuntu live CD can repair a computer even if you can't start it up. Use ClamAV for anti-virus. It takes up way less memory then Norton.  

Answer 3

I can help this problem. I've been using computers for a while for many reasons but I suggest Ccleaner, Spybot Search & Destroy, Ad-aware free, Avast Antivirus, Zone Alarm, AVG is okay but not the best in my opinion. Windows firewall is always an open option good handy programs to keep your computer In tip top shape.

http://www.ccleaner.com/

http://www.safer-networking.org/index2.h...

http://lavasoft.com/

http://www.avast.com/

http://free.avg.com/

http://www.zonealarm.com/store/content/h...

Answer 4

I would recommend NOT installing anything on a clients pc. Just because it's free doesn't mean you should install it at will.

If you are a tech, your company should provide anti software if it is policy & your job to remove mal-ware.

You may want to carry a boot disk & maybe an OS on a flash drive.