Is software like McAfee quickclean and Nortons cleensweep really necessary to have?

lvhkyjr2,

Disk cleanup, cleaning out temporary internet files, and defragging should be all that is required to keep your hard disk clean and functioning properly. In Windows 9X systems there are some things that can be deleted in DOS which the Windows utilities don't clean but that option is not available under XP, which offers much more customizable disk cleanup features.

No, I use none and all my systems work just fine.  All the tools I need are part of Win XP Pro. You can remove temporary Internet file from within Internet Explorer.  Windows XP includes an adaquate disk defragmenter.  I have never found a rreally good reason the clean the registry.

I also agree that third party programs are not needed.  Although Microsoft sometimes skimps on some maintenance items, XP seems to have adequate utilties.  I also find some programs will tend to fix things that are not "broke" or can even remove items that shouldn't be removed. 

I will join the chorus.  There is no reason to use Norton Systemworks or anything McAfee makes.  These programs have gotten more complex over the years are severly bloated and create as many problems as they claim to solve.  Save your money and your frustration and use the built in tools Windows XP has.