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How to Shut Off Startup Programs (Windows)
You might not even realize it, but when you first log onto your PC, dozens of programs and services are starting that you most likely don't need. Some rear their ugly heads in the system tray (that little collection of icons next to the clock in Windows), but others run quietly in the background with you none the wiser.
Now, don't get scared, these instructions will take you to corners of your operating system (OS) you may not have seen before, but follow our instructions below and you should notice slightly quicker performance and potentially much faster boot times.
Windows:
- In XP select Run from the Start menu, under Vista you can hit the Windows key and "r" at the same time to bring up the Run dialog.
- Run msconfig.
- Select the Services tab.
- You can safely uncheck the following services: Fast User Switching (if you only have one account on the PC), Indexing Service, Remote Registry, Smart Card, Telephony, Computer Browser (unless you have a home network), Messenger, Net Logon, Telnet, Terminal Services, NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharing, Remote Desktop Help Session Manager, Uninterpretable Power Supply.
- Now navigate to the Startup tab.
- Uncheck any applications that don't need to be running the minute you startup your computer -- like AIM, iTunes Helper, and QT Task. But leave the antivirus.
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Comments
108
Subscribe to commentsRaymond WikertApr 30th 2009 6:21PM
This didn't work. Did all the "un-checks" - hit "apply" & then "save" and got an error message that the PC Administrator was needed. Ignored that and then got a message that a re-start was needed to make the changes apply. Did a re-start and got another "Administrator" error message with a request (order?) to do another re-start. That just started a "re-start" loop. Gave up and restored all the original settings. The PC is still slow but at least it works.
bmagee007Apr 30th 2009 8:54PM
MSCONFIG is a diagnostic program that is used to determine if programes are causing start up promblems. It is not a long term option to disable unnecessary start up programs. To disable (eliminate) unnecessary start up programs us this free utility.... Glary Utilities... http://www.glaryutilities.com/ It also contains many useful fixes for other PC problems.
nicarolenMay 1st 2009 9:12AM
I have XP at work, and found all but one or two of the files listed. I have Visat at home, however, and only found two or three of the files. They either do not exist in Vista, or have different names. Does anyone know?
RosieMay 1st 2009 3:02PM
It seemed to help me some, I did get the message about putting it back like it was but I ignored it and it seems fine. Here's my big question: Why do I always get messages about needing to Debug all the time? When I click "Yes" it just starts to do something and then stops. It pops up every time I load a page with pictures. Sometimes it stops me from being able to write in or click something. It won't go away and it doesn't do anything. What can I do about it? Thanks!
mikeMay 2nd 2009 11:31AM
There are so many items in the Startup tab besides the few noted that do not need to be running "like AIM,iTunes Helper, and QT task". How do I know whether the scads of others are needed?
MarieMay 6th 2009 3:22PM
I followed the instructions and my computer is totally messed up. I am unable to get on the internet. There is no IP address. HELP!!
nikkiq14May 12th 2009 5:53PM
anyone know how to temporay disable webroot so i can down load coupon.com
webroot keep blocking from down load my coupon.com
Rose and RayMay 25th 2009 5:46PM
Aol is running reaaaaaaaaaaal slow how can i speed it up