Clean Up Your Windows Startup
Many applications and services automatically start every time you turn on your computer. While some Windows startup programs are essential for your system to function properly, others are not needed and can significantly slow down your PC’s performance. Whether you’re using Windows 10 startup programs or managing startup programs in Windows 11, it’s important to clean up the unnecessary ones to optimize your system’s speed.
The longer you use your computer, the more likely it is that unneeded programs are bogging down your Windows startup process, especially on older systems.
Advantages of auto-starting programs
- Security software is automatically loaded to protect your PC without any action needed on your part.
- Certain programs can automatically check for updates, ensuring you receive important security patches and performance enhancements.
- Frequently used applications are pre-loaded, providing faster access through the system tray or desktop shortcuts, saving you time.
Disadvantages of auto-starting programs
- Unnecessary programs often slow down your PC’s startup process, especially in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
- Memory resources are wasted on rarely used programs, which can decrease overall system performance.
- Malicious software or unwanted plug-ins may hide in the startup configuration, running without your knowledge and consuming valuable system resources.
How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows 11
For those who want to add programs to startup in Windows 11, it’s a straightforward process:
- Navigate to Settings > Apps > Startup.
- Select the programs you wish to launch at startup by toggling them on or off from the existing list.
If you want to add a new program that’s not listed, use Task Manager:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Del to open Task Manager, and go to the Startup tab.
- If the program is already installed but not on the startup list, you can add it by creating a shortcut in the Startup folder. Press Win + R, type shell:startup, and hit Enter, then add a shortcut for your program here.
How to Turn Off Fast Startup in Windows 10 and 11
If you’re looking to improve startup speed further, you might want to consider disabling fast startup. While fast startup can reduce boot times, it can also prevent certain updates or background services from running properly. Here’s how to turn off fast startup in Windows 11 and Windows 10:
- Open the Control Panel and go to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
- Click on Choose what the power buttons do in the left sidebar.
- Under Shutdown settings, locate Turn on fast startup and uncheck the box to disable it.
- Click Save changes to apply your settings.
By doing this, you’ll give your system more flexibility to load everything properly, reducing issues with incomplete shutdowns or startup problems.
For a comprehensive solution to boost your PC’s performance, consider using System Mechanic. This tool removes bloatware by identifying and eliminating unwanted programs that can slow down your system by launching and running in the background without your knowledge. By clearing out unnecessary software, System Mechanic helps your computer start faster and run more efficiently.
