History Cleaner

Though it lacks a few features that would make it a comprehensive solution, this privacy tool provides an acceptable level of protection. For starters, we're glad History Cleaner can erase your Web-surfing traces from a few browsers, including Internet Explorer, Opera, and Netscape. The application also can delete tracks from common Windows system areas such as the Clipboard, the Run menu, and the Recent Documents list. However, unlike some of the top-rated privacy apps, this one doesn't support the cleaning of third-party apps such as IM clients or P2P software. The inclusion of a file shredder is a bonus, but we wish it used the ultrasecure deletion methods sanctioned by the government. Still, we really liked the Panic button, which lets you hide all open browser windows at the touch of a button. A scheduling tool rounds out the feature set. All things considered, History Cleaner makes a good pick for the majority of average PC users.