For more than two decades, CCleaner has established itself as an almost essential tool for anyone looking to optimize their computer’s performance. In 2025, faced with the multitude of available computer cleaning solutions, the question of its software reliability and computer security remains at the heart of concerns for both individuals and professionals. This cleaning software promises to free up disk space, improve system fluidity, and protect privacy by deleting unnecessary files, cookies, and other often invisible traces that slow down our PCs. Yet debates persist about its real effectiveness, security challenges, and potential risks associated with its long-term use.
In 2025, CCleaner continues to evolve by offering regular updates that improve not only its interface but also its ability to automatically detect and delete obsolete files. However, the dreaded 2017 incident – when millions of users were exposed to a compromised version – still weighs on the minds of informed users. This in-depth analysis aims to explore the different facets of the software: its technical advances, cleaning methods, impact on PC performance, and its guarantees regarding computer security and privacy protection.
Beyond the interface and commercial promises of CCleaner, it is essential to dissect the internal mechanisms, the types of files targeted during deletion, and the terms of use to understand whether this cleaning software still justifies the trust it is granted. Moreover, the review of existing alternatives in 2025 will allow evaluation of whether CCleaner remains a relevant choice or if, faced with new challenges related to data management and system protection, other more suitable solutions deserve preference.
- 1 Evolution and major features: How CCleaner established itself in computer cleaning
- 2 Detailed analysis: computer security and controversies around CCleaner
- 3 Pricing and versions: should you prefer the Pro version for better system optimization?
- 4 Ease of use and ergonomics: user experience between efficiency and accessibility
- 5 Alternatives to CCleaner and informed choice: which tools for comprehensive computer security in 2025?
Evolution and major features: How CCleaner established itself in computer cleaning
Since its inception in 2004, with a modest aim of being a simple temporary file cleaner, CCleaner has diversified to become a key player in system optimization. This gradual evolution was marked by the addition of increasingly relevant functions.
CCleaner stands out primarily for the simplicity of its interface, accessible to both novices and advanced users. The deletion of unnecessary files remains its flagship feature: temporary files, caches, cookies, browsing histories, system logs, and remnants of deleted applications are systematically analyzed and cleaned. This action frees valuable disk space, resulting in a visible improvement in PC performance. For the more methodical, the scheduling of automatic cleaning avoids any manual intervention, thereby reducing the risk of forgetting essential maintenance tasks.
On a more technical level, CCleaner also includes a startup optimization tool that intelligently manages programs launched automatically, thus avoiding slowdowns during Windows startup. Furthermore, the regular update of drivers via the Driver Updater function strengthens the device’s stability and hardware security. Secure deletion of sensitive files ensures that confidential data cannot be recovered by third parties, a crucial point in the current context where personal data protection is a priority.
Among the various features, note also:
- Smart analysis: CCleaner identifies items to delete without major risk, helping users avoid accidentally erasing important files.
- Software update: The integration of an application update module helps reduce security vulnerabilities.
- Privacy management: Cookies and browsing data are deleted to limit tracking and strengthen privacy protection.
- Multi-platform cleaning: Available on Windows, macOS, and Android, CCleaner adapts its functions to the specifics of each system.
These successive developments have allowed CCleaner to remain relevant while refining its ability to maintain a balance between PC performance and computer security.
Detailed analysis: computer security and controversies around CCleaner
Despite its popularity, CCleaner has not escaped controversies, notably regarding computer security. The notable episode occurred in 2017 when the software was the victim of a massive attack that compromised the official version, affecting approximately 2.27 million machines worldwide. This breach deeply shook user trust.
After this crisis, Avast, the group now owning CCleaner, launched a drastic improvement policy. Strengthened measures have been implemented: encrypted communications, reinforced update verifications, increased supervision of distribution servers, and regular audits. These efforts have since drastically reduced the risks of intrusion or infection via this cleaning software.
Moreover, cautious use is always encouraged. Specialists recommend combining CCleaner with effective antivirus solutions and never activating automatic cleaning tools without having a recent system backup. This advice responds to the very nature of the application, which handles very sensitive data and can, if misused, cause loss or alteration of essential files.
Another recurring question concerns data privacy. CCleaner collects certain information for statistical analysis and product improvement purposes, which raises concerns about respect for privacy. However, the privacy policy was revised in 2025 to clarify and limit data collection, in a spirit of increased transparency with users.
In summary, despite a turbulent past, CCleaner has strengthened its computer security to become in 2025 a generally reliable cleaning software, provided it is used thoughtfully and accompanied by rigorous antivirus analysis.
Pricing and versions: should you prefer the Pro version for better system optimization?
One of the main questions remains the choice between the free version of CCleaner and its professional versions, notably CCleaner Professional and CCleaner Professional Plus. The price gap remains affordable in 2025, with an annual subscription of €29.95 for the classic Pro version, while the Plus version is offered at €44.95.
It is essential to understand what each offer brings:
| Version | Key Features | Main Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | Basic cleaning, temporary file deletion, recycle bin emptying, cookie deletion | Ideal for regular maintenance without commitment | Advanced features absent, no automatic cleaning or software updates |
| Professional | Automatic cleaning, performance optimization, software update, real-time monitoring | Improved performance, time-saving, more complete interface | Only one PC covered, requires paid subscription |
| Professional Plus | Pro functions + file recovery, hardware inventory, Pro mobile applications | Complete solution for advanced users and small businesses | Higher cost, increased complexity for novices |
For example, the automatic cleaning scheduling system, reserved for Pro subscribers, offers a significant advantage by preventing forgetfulness in system maintenance. Regular driver updates also help improve stability, especially for users who do not have the time or knowledge to manually manage each component.
Tested and appreciated for its broad compatibility (Windows, Mac, Android), CCleaner Pro remains today one of the best value-for-money options. The use of the paid version is therefore mainly justified for users who want thorough cleaning without continuous effort, guaranteeing sustainable system optimization.
Ease of use and ergonomics: user experience between efficiency and accessibility
One of the strengths widely praised by CCleaner users is its ease of use. Whether on Windows or macOS, the application offers a clear and intuitive interface that highlights the main functions without overwhelming the audience. Simple navigation allows quick access to all tools and cleaning choices.
Beginners and experts alike particularly appreciate the transparency offered during cleaning: before any deletion, CCleaner lists identified files, offering the possibility of keeping certain items. This control avoids accidental deletions and the anxiety linked to losing important data.
On mobile, especially under Android, the application stands out with a sleek design, simple menus, and clear explanations. However, it remains less complete than its PC version, notably in terms of advanced tools, but is perfectly suitable for managing storage space and improving smartphone fluidity.
The table below highlights the evaluation of various dimensions of ease of use:
| Criterion | Rating (out of 10) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | 9.5 | Quick process, accessible on the official site without traps |
| PC use | 9 | Ergonomic interface, clearly identified options |
| Mobile use | 8.5 | Fewer tools but aesthetic and functional design |
| Technical support | 6 | Mainly online assistance, no direct help |
Despite its ergonomic qualities, customer service remains a point to improve. The absence of phone support or live chat limits available help in case of urgent problems. To cope, users often have to refer to the community forum or video tutorials offered.
Alternatives to CCleaner and informed choice: which tools for comprehensive computer security in 2025?
While CCleaner remains a leader in the field of computer cleaning, competition has proposed innovative and performant alternatives that should not be overlooked. For Mac users, CleanMyMac X stands out with its intuitive interface, smart cleaning, and advanced expertise in managing applications and unnecessary files. This premium solution is ideal for those who want thorough maintenance without hassle.
At the same time, Washing Machine by Intego also targets Apple users with a simple system to clean, organize, and speed up their Mac. Its pragmatic three-step approach offers a considerable time saving and effective optimization, even for novices.
For the Windows platform, Wise Disk Cleaner offers a robust free version that competes with CCleaner in cleaning temporary files, cookies, and digital debris. With added defragmentation features, this tool can convince those seeking a complete solution at no cost.
Here is a concise comparison of the main cleaning software in 2025:
| Software | Platform | Price | Key Features | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCleaner | Windows, macOS, Android | Free to €44.95/year | Comprehensive cleaning, driver updates, automatic scheduling | Accessible and multi-platform interface, real-time monitoring |
| CleanMyMac X | macOS | Premium annual subscription | Smart cleaning, application uninstallation, optimization | Intuitive interface, targeted cleaning without risk |
| Washing Machine | macOS | One-time license or subscription | Desktop organization, bulky file cleaning, acceleration | Ease of use, suitable for beginners |
| Wise Disk Cleaner | Windows | Free | Temporary file cleaning, cookies, defragmentation | Simplicity of use, solid performance |
In short, the choice of computer cleaning software in 2025 must be based on specific needs, the platform used, and the technological comfort level of the user. CCleaner retains its advantage thanks to a wide range of features and a good balance between PC performance and security, but other options deserve serious consideration for personalized solutions.
