Autoruns vs EtreCheckPro

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.

EtreCheckPro is a macOS diagnostic tool for investigating problems on a Mac. It detects more than 70 specific problems, distinguishes major from minor issues, and produces an anonymous text report for sharing online. It can identify security configuration problems and detect and remove malware. The app also shows storage use and helps address storage problems, but those functions require Full Disk Access. The free version supports command-line use from Terminal or ssh and can run from the Downloads folder without installation. It works on Intel and Apple Silicon Macs running macOS 10.13 through macOS 27. The optional Power User package adds computer-generated step-by-step solutions and detailed views of hardware, operating system, storage, networking, software, and performance, plus system Analytics and Insights charts. The free download costs nothing and includes basic reports and diagnostics. The Power User package costs $19.99, paid once and covers up to six different computers. Technical support is provided by email, with the company striving to respond within 48 hours.