Optimizer

This simple freeware tool helps you eliminate select running processes before loading certain applications. Optimizer's multitab interface appears a bit clunky, but is logically arranged and easy to use. The succinct Help file is more than enough information for anyone familiar with processes, but operating Optimizer still takes some trial and error.

The gist of the app is to create lists of processes to ignore or kill when starting select applications. The utility uses the term Games for the applications, but the publisher stresses that any executable can be used. Using simple file browsing in the Add Game tab, users populate the Games List with applications they wish to execute after eliminating select running processes. The Process tab lists all running processes. You merely right-click a process to add it to the Ignore List or the Kill List.

Double-click an application on the Games List and Optimize immediately kills any processes found on the Kill List, ignores those on the Ignore List, and then kills any process that isn't necessary for Windows to operate.

The program's final tab, Startup List, displays processes Optimize will start when you choose the Restore Windows option. It's easy to add processes using the same right-click method used with the Kill and Ignore lists.

Optimize is easy to implement, requires little overhead, and operates cleanly. We easily recommend this app for experienced users wishing to pare down their system before running specified applications.