Windows 7 - Unwanted programs

I went out and downloaded a really neat CPU gadget and it put 5 unwanted programs on my computer and I still didn't get the gadget so I went into my control panel and uninstalled them. This happens all the time so is there any way to avoid this? I know quit downloading crap but I thought I would post this just in case anyone know what to look out for? I don't think I have ever downloaded something that didn't put Yahoo toolbar on my computer and I must have uninstalled it 15 times. I will admit I have a habit of clicking on "Yes", "Accept", etc. just too get though it so maybe I should start reading all this a little better so I am careless but a pat on the head might help me. Thanks

System Restore Points? Acronis TrueImage's "Try and Decide" feature? Both might assist...

Hello Richard,

Yep, these programs will usually have an option to uncheck during their installation to not install toolbars or whatever bloatware garbage included with them. About the only thing you can do is what you said to pay closer attention while installing.

these days, software authors tend to include crapware in their installers as a means of generating some income from their free software.

i always choose the 'custom' or 'advanced' install options and check each screen of the install wizard carefully, as i'm quite fussy (possibly verging on anal) about install locations and try to avoid excess baggage.

the lesson to learn is don't just blindly tick 'yes' and 'accept' - it may take a few seconds longer to install by reading the screens but it can save you hours of time that you'll waste de-crapifying your pc!

untick those boxes!