Autoruns vs east-tec Eraser

Autoruns shows programs and drivers configured to run during Windows boot, login, or when certain built-in Windows applications start. It reports startup items from locations such as the Startup folder, Registry keys, Explorer extensions, services, scheduled tasks, and Winlogon entries. Users can hide signed Microsoft entries to focus on third-party items, inspect startup images configured for other accounts, and disable an entry or delete its configuration. Scan options include signature verification and VirusTotal hash checks; submitting files not previously scanned requires the upload option, and VirusTotal features require accepting its terms. The download includes Autorunsc, a command-line version that can output CSV or tab-delimited data, verify signatures, and scan an offline Windows system. The Autoruns and Autorunsc download is listed as 3 MB, and Microsoft offers a Sysinternals Live option. Autoruns costs nothing, with no limit on installation or use on devices owned or supported by the user, but no redistribution license. Microsoft says Sysinternals tools are provided as is without official support and points users to a community forum.

east-tec Eraser is Windows software for erasing files with selectable methods, verification, and erasure reports. Listed methods include DoD 5220.22-M, GOST P50739-95, VSITR, the Bruce Schneier Algorithm, and the Peter Gutmann method. Verification provides a way to check the operation, while reports provide a record of the erasure. The Eraser Plan costs $39.95 a year, billed per year, and includes one year of free updates and support. A 15-day trial is available, but there is no free plan. The product is therefore a paid Windows tool with an annual plan and a file-focused scope. Users can choose among the named algorithms and review the resulting verification and report information.