Fast startup is crucial for a smooth Windows experience. Too many startup programs, unnecessary background services, and system clutter can significantly slow down your boot time. This guide provides 12 essential startup optimization tips, with step-by-step instructions designed for intermediate Windows users who want to take control of their system’s performance.
Why Is Startup Optimization Important?
Optimizing your Windows startup reduces boot time, minimizes unnecessary background processes, and helps your computer run more efficiently. Faster startups mean less waiting and more productivity, whether you use your PC for work or entertainment.
How Can You Identify Startup Programs?
1. Use Task Manager to Review Startup Impact
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Click the Startup tab.
Review the list of enabled programs and check the “Startup impact” column.
Real-world example: If you notice programs like Skype, Spotify, or OneDrive set to “High impact” but you rarely use them at startup, consider disabling them.
2. Evaluate with Glary Utilities’ Startup Manager
Glary Utilities offers a user-friendly Startup Manager that categorizes startup entries.
Install and launch Glary Utilities.
Go to the “Startup Manager” under the “Optimize & Improve” section.
Disable unnecessary entries, or delay startup for non-essential programs.
What Should You Disable or Delay?
3. Remove Bloatware and Unnecessary Apps
Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
Uninstall software you don’t use, especially those that add themselves to startup (e.g., trialware, manufacturer utilities).
4. Delay Non-Essential Programs
In Glary Utilities’ Startup Manager, select “Delay” instead of disabling for programs you want to run, but not immediately at startup. This spreads out resource usage and speeds up initial boot.
How to Manage Services and Background Tasks?
5. Disable Unnecessary Services via System Configuration
Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
Go to the Services tab.
Check “Hide all Microsoft services” to avoid disabling critical Windows services.
Uncheck services related to third-party apps you don’t need running at startup.
6. Optimize Scheduled Tasks
Open Task Scheduler (Win + S, type Task Scheduler).
Review tasks in “Task Scheduler Library”.
Disable tasks that are no longer required, such as outdated software updaters.
How Do You Clean up Startup Folders and Registry?
7. Clean the Startup Folders
Navigate to the following folders:
C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
Delete shortcuts to programs you don’t want to launch at startup.
8. Use Glary Utilities to Clean Registry Entries
Registry entries for non-existent or uninstalled startup items can slow down boot.
Open Glary Utilities.
Go to “Registry Cleaner” under “Clean & Repair”.
Scan and fix invalid registry entries, focusing on “Run” and “RunOnce” keys.
How Can You Optimize Windows Itself?
9. Enable Fast Startup in Windows
Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.
Click “Change settings that are currently unavailable”.
Check “Turn on fast startup (recommended)”.
Save changes.
10. Keep Windows Updated
Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Install the latest updates to ensure performance improvements and bug fixes.
What About Antivirus and Security Programs?
11. Optimize Antivirus Startup Behavior
Most antivirus solutions have options to delay or minimize startup impact.
Open your antivirus app’s settings.
Look for startup or performance options, and adjust to minimize boot-time scanning if possible.
How to Maintain Startup Performance Regularly?
12. Regular Maintenance with Glary Utilities
Open Glary Utilities.
Use the “1-Click Maintenance” feature regularly to clean up temporary files, repair broken shortcuts, remove startup clutter, and optimize your registry.
Set a schedule for regular automatic maintenance.
Conclusion
With these 12 actionable tips, you can take control of your Windows startup, ensuring faster boot times and a smoother user experience. Glary Utilities provides a comprehensive toolkit for both one-time optimization and ongoing maintenance, making it an invaluable asset for any intermediate Windows user looking to keep their system optimized and efficient.