Every "free" product you downloaded actually adds more spam to your hard drive - pretty soon you'll be getting pop-ups for the "paid" versions.
Originally Posted by Anonymous01
This is simply not true. Yes most free utilities prompt you at updates and renewal to purchase the paid version, but a simple click 'no' or choosing the 'free' version is all you have to do.
Avast is a good basic virus / malware program. I would also recommend using a good VPN for security. And using the 'private' mode on your browser.
https://www.ccleaner.com/
CCleaner is outstanding, easy to customize for whatever clean/wipe you want. You can attach it to the 'recycle bin' so a right click and 'run CCleaner' goes to work. You will have to close your browser to scrub it though. Also includes a registry cleaner.
Malwarebytes used to be free and is excellent but at $40 a year I am not interested. If you want a serious scrub away everything get Avast and Malwarebytes and they will lock you down very well. It sounds like maybe you just have too much junk installed that is taking up space. Again CCleaner will get rid of so much of the junk once you get it all un-installed
Keep in mind if you are using a work station there is probably no way to 'wipe' away where you have been or what you have written and sent/posted. Your company IT dept can track everything down to the individual keystroke. Even if you are at work using your own laptop, the wi-fi will be monitored.