How to improve startup speed on your Windows PCs
Microsoft has recently published a new support page, with several methods to identify and disable problematic startup applications that may slow down your Windows 11/10 system. The tech giant's primary focus is on tracking down these pesky programs and preventing them from affecting the system's performance. These tips are designed to help users enhance their Windows boot times, particularly when they suspect an app is causing sluggishness.
Navigating through settings to identify startup apps
The first step involves opening the Settings app and navigating to Apps > Startup. Here, users will find a list of apps that run at startup with a toggle next to each one. This toggle allows or prevents the app from automatically launching right after the boot. Clicking on the chevron icon next to each app, provides additional advanced options for further customization if needed.
Using Task Manager to assess app impact
If an app isn't listed in the Settings, users can turn to the Windows Task Manager. By right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting "Task Manager," users can access a list of startup apps under the "Startup" tab. This section provides detailed information about each program's impact level, defined by CPU cycles and disk usage during startup, which is crucial when identifying performance bottlenecks.
File Explorer and Registry: Advanced methods for tech-savvy users
For apps not visible in Settings or Task Manager, Microsoft suggests using File Explorer. This involves launching Run, opening the master folder containing all installed apps by typing "shell:appsfolder" into the Run dialog, and then relaunching Run to type "shell:startup" or "shell:common startup." The final resort is the Windows Registry, which requires caution as there are no safeguards to indicate if a registry entry is essential. Incorrect modifications can render Windows inoperative.
