📦 Maintain Software Inventory

Last updated: July 20, 2025

Review installed programs, remove bloatware, audit browser extensions, and manage startup apps for a lean system

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What this helps with

What to expect: Medium difficulty • usually about 45-60 minutes.

This is one of 25 Preventive Maintenance fixes in the WindowsHelper library. The full step-by-step fix for this is in the WindowsHelper app.

Related fixes in Preventive Maintenance

• 💚 Check System Health Regularly

  Run system diagnostics, check disk health, review event logs, and verify system file integrity to catch problems early

  Medium45-60 minutes
• 🔧 Driver Update Guide

  Keep device drivers current through Windows Update, Device Manager, and manufacturer tools to prevent hardware issues

  Medium30-45 minutes
• 🧹 Hardware Cleanliness

  Clean keyboards, screens, vents, fans, ports, and internal components to prevent overheating and extend hardware life

  Medium45-60 minutes
• 🔄 Manage Windows Updates

  Install updates, troubleshoot failures, set active hours, and reset update components to keep Windows current and secure

  Medium45-60 minutes
• 🛡️ Monitor Network Security

  Check firewall status, audit connected devices, review sharing permissions, and configure DNS protection for network safety

  Medium45-60 minutes
• 📊 System Health Monitoring

  Use Task Manager, Resource Monitor, Performance Monitor, and Reliability Monitor to track system stability and performance

  Medium30-45 minutes
• 🌱 Monthly PC Maintenance

  Run disk cleanup, optimize storage, clear caches, update antivirus, verify backups, and perform routine system maintenance

  Medium30-45 minutes
• 📁 Organize and Archive Files

  Create folder structures, sort downloads, use Storage Sense, archive old files, and automate file organization

  Medium45-60 minutes
• 🛡️ Review Security Settings

  Check Windows Security status, review sign-in options, enable 2FA, configure Defender scans, and audit privacy settings

  Medium30-45 minutes
• 💾 Automated Backups

  Enable File History, set up OneDrive, create system images, configure backup schedules, and test restoration procedures

  Medium45-60 minutes

You might also run into

• ⚡ Control Startup Programs - Speed Up Your PC Boot | WindowsHelper

  Speed up your PC boot time by managing which programs start automatically

  Easy15-30 minutes
• Fix Chrome or Edge Using Too Much RAM & Memory

  Fix Chrome/Edge using too much RAM with Memory Saver, Sleeping Tabs, extension audit, browser Task Manager, and Efficiency Mode.

  Easy5 minutes
• Fix Slow Browser & Clear Cache — Chrome, Edge & Firefox

  Fix slow browser performance by clearing cache/cookies, removing heavy extensions, managing tabs, updating, and toggling hardware acceleration. Covers Chrome, Edge, and Firefox.

  Easy5-10 minutes
• Fix Windows 11 24H2 Start Menu and Taskbar Issues

  Re-register Start Menu packages, reset Taskbar, fix system tray icons, repair pinned apps, and restore widgets and search functionality after 24H2.

  Medium15-45 minutes