I bought a computer on E-Bay

[Enthusiast]

I bought a computer on E-Bay. It's a Dell Optiplex 755.

After a bit of messing around the computer appears to be functioning well. I had a problem with pop-up advertisements until I installed and ran Super Anti-Spyware.

It has Windows 7. In the interest of getting away from the "questionable" XP.

Anyway the computer came with several programs pre-installed. Being the suspicious type I have not used these programs. I'm thinking of uninstalling them.

They are OpenOffice.org 3.3, Optimize Your PC, PC Tech Hotline.

Is anyone familiar with these programs?

Are they harmless?

Thanks for your help. I know very little about computers or computer terminology.

[ret5hd]

1. Keep OpenOffice...

it's a free Microsoft Office replacement and you can always get the latest version for free.

THe other 2, I believe I would trash.

[d_r]

2. ditto. nt

[Sentath]

4. +1

Agreed ( :

Not sure what else to say other than to recommend MalwareBytes and or Spybot Search & Destroy.

[Thor_MN]

9. Agree. Unless you have or really want MS Office, keep Open Office.

Toss the other two.

[angstlessk]

3. I have used Open Office..it is a great replacement for MS Office..and it's FREE!!!!!!!

It does take up lots of space, but unless you want to fork out a ton of money for MS Office...keep it..it is almost identical

[smartphone]

5. Open Office 4.1 is the latest version update, and still free

It is a marvelous application, as good as Microsoft Office or even better.

Get an updated version and register for updates from them.

[Enthusiast]

6. Thanks, everyone. I appreciate your suggestions.

[gvstn]

7. I'll agree with the others

Keep and update Office. Dump the other two as the Optimizer is probably junk and the PC Tech Hotline is for remote access for troubleshooting help and is again questionable as to whom you are allowing remote access.

After you remove the programs you don't want you might want to go to Control Panel>Users and create a new account with Administrative privileges. Sign into that one and install any new programs and use only the new account for a week or so. If all is running well you can remove the account you are currently signed into so that you don't have anything starting up without your knowledge.

[Enthusiast]

8. Thanks.