XtraTools 2009 Editor's Review

'XtraTools 2009' is a software package that consists of four applications: WinTools.net, Armor Tools, Extra Drive, and RAM Saver including over 20 system utilities.

As stated above, the program's four categories provide a wide selection of tools meant to maintain, delete unnecessary files, increase speed, and configure your computer. Besides the tools included, the program allows you to quickly open and edit 'autoexec', 'config', 'Win.ini', and 'System.ini' files. From the program, you can also quickly access MS Tools such as MS Info, MS Config, Regedit, and System Restore, as well as running Command Prompt, install/uninstall drivers, or reboot your computer.

Now, let's have a closer look at the tools bundled in this suite. WinTools.net is a category that groups The Clean Uninstaller, Scan Files, Scan registry, Startup Manager, and Tweak UI. These tools are designed to help you clean your computer of unnecessary files, to make your computer boot faster, to backup and clean your registry, and to customize the Windows user interface. You can manage your files, startup section, services, and user interface, as well as perform in depth scans of your hard drives and registry for incorrect or redundant entries.

The installation notes contain a warning, according to which you should close all other applications and create a registry backup before working with the WinTools.net. This is a very good advice, but I didn't have to restore my registry. The program performed all its functions flawlessly.

The Armor Tools section contains tools used to protect your privacy and prevent any disclosure of data without your permission. 'Encrypt Disk' protects your data by encrypting it and protecting it with a password. 'The Eraser' helps you erase Windows recent and temporary objects. You have an option to remove files through 'File Shredder' to make sure they're gone for good. Removing files with 'File Shredder' can be taken even further, meaning the deleted files can be fragmented. 'Invisible Man', helps you delete all temporary files and Internet temp files such as cache, history, etc. The 'Adjustments' tool can be used for security restrictions and for enforcing system policy. You can use it to manage the 'Start Menu', 'Windows Explorer', 'Network', Printers', 'Display', and Internet Explorer's 'Favorites', by hiding the items or denying access to them.

The 'Extra Drive Creator' includes a set of tools needed for creating virtual drives. You can create encrypted drives with 256 bits cryptographic algorithms, virtual CD-ROMs, virtual drives based on files with custom sizes and RAM drives.

'Ram Saver' is a collection of tools designed to make the best out of your memory to improve your system's performance and increase the speed of running applications. The tools included will defragment the memory, or free memory used in excess by some applications. It optimizes the memory to make your computer faster and more effective. You can choose to allow the program to optimize your memory automatically or you can choose custom settings for the memory optimization. You can also run RAM benchmark tests.

Pluses: The program displays a summary of your system in the 'Options' section. If you look in the system tray, you see the percent of free memory. A major plus is the fact that you have all the necessary utilities bundled, so you don't need to install dozens of programs for each maintenance task.

Drawbacks / flaws: You can't use the program to emulate disk drives.

In conclusion: A complete and cost effective solution for the welfare of your computer, suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

version reviewed: 2009