New for 2008 is the latest version of Iolo System Mechanic Pro 7.5. System mechanic is a full suite of computer system utilities.

A system tool like this is great for all of us non-geeks and those of us who don’t have a geeky friend we can on every time we to do something at the system level. Until recently, the standard version of system mechanic costs $50.00 and which did not include anti-virus protection; secure data wiping and recovery; or the firewall. Iolo is now offering the full package for $48.97, so jump on it. Supposedly, this is a “limited time offer”.

The first feature is a full Windows Registry tool capable of backing up, restoring, repairing, and even compacting the Windows registry. For people like me who would prefer not to make manual changes to the registry, this tool alone could be worth the 50 bucks.

The second tool include is full spyware detection and removal. Anti-spyware system removes a large number of threats.

Included also is the system optimizer. This tool will optimize your startup files and system memory; and tweak your Internet connection settings for best performance. I haven’t tried it myself, but I wonder if it includes the great tweaks which help my buddy Firefox run so fast.

Secure data removal is also a great tool and usually requires a separate software program. Other than the obvious reasons to securely clean your deleted files like taking your computer in for repairs or selling your computer, there are a host of other reason why you might want to make your deleted pictures, videos, text files, emails, and other information unrecoverable.

Lastly, System Mechanic Pro provides full anit-virus protection with real-time monitoring and a firewall. No doubt the firewall is much better the standard firewall that’s included with Windows. The first thing I did with my new Vista machine is turn off the Windows firewall and setup COMODO.

And if all that wasn’t enough, most of these functions can be set to run automatically. Truly a great price for what you get. I am tempted to buy it just for the registry cleaner and the secure file deletion. I use Wiper from time to time, to wipe the hard drive, but that program takes a good 8 hours to complete its job.