Recommended PC Tools & Software
After 25+ years in IT, these are the tools I reach for again and again — to remove malware, protect data, speed up slow machines, and keep computers running. No fluff, just what works.
Some links below are affiliate links — if you buy through them I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I’d genuinely suggest to a client. Read the full affiliate disclosure.
Security & Malware Removal
Malwarebytes Premium
The go-to tool for IT professionals dealing with active infections. Where Windows Defender misses, Malwarebytes catches — it has cleaned machines that every other tool missed.
Bitdefender Total Security
Consistently top-ranked by independent labs (AV-TEST, AV-Comparatives) with near-zero performance impact. The set-it-and-forget-it choice for real-time protection.
NordVPN
If you ever connect to public Wi-Fi (coffee shops, airports, hotels), a VPN is non-negotiable. NordVPN is fast, no-logs, and easy to use.
Backup & Data Protection
Backblaze
The most reliable, affordable cloud backup around — unlimited storage for one computer. In 25 years of IT, data-loss prevention is the #1 thing worth preaching, and Backblaze makes it effortless.
PC Performance & Optimization
CCleaner Professional
The original PC cleaning tool, now with scheduled cleanup, a startup manager, and health monitoring built in. Worth it for the startup-program management alone.
Hardware Upgrades
via AmazonSSD Upgrades
Samsung 870 EVO SATA SSD
Reliable, fast, and backed by Samsung's 5-year warranty. The top pick for desktop and laptop upgrades — the single biggest speed boost you can give an older PC.
WD Blue SATA SSD
Excellent value from a trusted brand, reliable long-term. A great pick when you want the SSD speed jump without the premium price.
Samsung 980 Pro NVMe SSD
For PCIe 4.0-compatible systems — dramatically faster than SATA. The choice when raw throughput matters, like large file work or high-end gaming.
RAM Upgrades
Crucial RAM
Crucial uses the same chips as Micron (one of two companies that makes DRAM). Their compatibility tool tells you exactly what fits your PC — going from 8GB to 16GB is a noticeable Windows 11 boost.
Corsair Vengeance RAM
For gaming PCs or workstations — faster speeds and reliable quality when you want more than baseline memory.
Cooling
Arctic MX-6 Thermal Paste
Non-electrically conductive, easy to apply, with excellent long-term stability. If your CPU runs hot and the paste hasn't been changed in 3+ years, this is a ~$10 fix that makes a huge difference.
IT Pro & Remote Access
for technicians, help desks & MSPsAnyDesk
Fast, lightweight, and affordable — a proven TeamViewer alternative used for years. The free version works for personal use; Business plans are reasonably priced for pros.
Splashtop
Purpose-built for managed service providers and help desks, with better team pricing than TeamViewer.
Free Tools I Also Trust
Not everything worth using costs money. These are free tools I recommend with no affiliate relationship — they’re simply the best option for the job.
CrystalDiskInfo
Monitor hard-drive SMART health (free, no ads)
HWMonitor
Check CPU, GPU, and motherboard temperatures
Windows Memory Diagnostic
Built into Windows — tests RAM for errors
Malwarebytes Free
Free version for manual scans (no real-time protection)
Recuva
Free file-recovery tool from the CCleaner makers
Not sure what your PC actually needs? Run a free diagnostic scan and let the report tell you.