When applications install themselves under Windows, they often place obscure entries in the Registry and in one or more .INI files, and they install desktop shortcuts or place icons in the System Tray. This makes it difficult (even impossible) to delete unneeded applications manually. Fortunately, current Windows 9x/Me applications incorporate an Uninstall feature that will "de-install" the application and remove its traces from the system. If the application does not include an Uninstall feature, you can often remove it through the Add/Remove Programs wizard. Click Start, highlight Settings, and then select Control Panel. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon. In the Install/Uninstall tab, select the program you with to remove, then click the Add/Remove button.

Formerly part of Computer Currents, Stephen J. Bigelow's Computer Advisor column has been resurrected on computeruser.com as a daily tech tip column. Find Stephen at www.dlspubs.com.